Mikel Arteta: It Will Take “A Few Transfer Windows” Before We’re Title Challengers

Mikel Arteta believes that we’re still some way off from mounting a title challenge…

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes he still needs a few more transfer windows before he can guide us to a realistic title charge after overseeing his first summer window, Sky Sports reports.

The club backed Arteta with some significant funds in a very difficult market last summer with the likes of Gabriel and Thomas Partey arriving for around £72million.

Brazilian international Willian also joined on a free transfer while Arteta sanctioned the re-signing of Dani Ceballos on a season-long loan.

Despite those arrivals, Arteta still feels there’s more work to be done in terms of recruitment before this team can carry out his vision.

“That (winning the league) will take a few windows at least to do that,” Arteta said.

“To establish yourself to compete at the level of certain clubs in this league, which is nearly 100 points, it takes time.

“In football, time is very precious and people are very impatient. But if you don’t respect the processes and you ask certain people to do certain things when the foundations are not there, it’s a really dangerous thing to do.”

The evidence certainly supports Arteta’s theory and while there have been highs, such as winning against many top sides and lifting two trophies, we lack the consistency required.

Also, the former Gunners skipper is yet to settle on a preferred system as he continuously aims to mask the flaws he believes are there in our defensive shape.

So, how long before we can compete at the top of the league?

“I know we all want to see Arsenal at the top of the league. My only intention every time is to prepare the football match.

“Where we get, time will tell. There’s still a lot of things that are going to happen,” the boss added.