It’s safe to say 2020/21 was a hugely disappointing campaign for Arsenal as we missed out on European football for the first time in over 25 years.

A disastrous opening few months cost us in the end as we narrowly missed out on a top-seven finish in the Premier League table. Things improved during the second half of the season as Arsenal were second in the table for the final 23 games but we couldn’t recover from that poor start.

There were positive signs during the run-in as we won our last five matches but ultimately finished 8th for the second consecutive season. The pressure is now on Arteta to turn things around and this is going to be a huge summer for the club.

As it stands, the bookmakers don’t fancy Arsenal to challenge again next season as we’re currently 40/1 seventh favourites for the 2021/22 title. Some bookies are offering odds as high as 80/1. Our overseas visitors can even use a betting bonuses Nigeria to enhance their value further making 80/1 a hugely tempting bet.

Squad additions

There is no doubt Arsenal underachieved this season as we already have a squad capable of challenging for the top four. However, with the right additions this summer, Arteta can make the top four a realistic aim next season.

New right-back

Hector Bellerin looks set for a move this summer and it’s important we bring in a top-class replacement. Right-back has been a problem area for some time and Arteta has used several players in that role this season.

Calum Chambers finished the season strongly but Arsenal still need a specialist right-back for the position and it would make a huge difference to the team.

Replace Luiz

David Luiz is leaving when his contract expires next month and Arsenal have to find a new centre-back. Gabriel is a future star if he’s developed correctly and Arteta needs to find a long-term partner for the Brazilian.

Much will depend on what the club plans for William Saliba. Many fans want to see him given a chance to forge a partnership with Gabriel but Arteta doesn’t seem convinced by him. If the boss isn’t going to back Saliba, then Arsenal need to buy a new centre-back this summer.

New midfielder

With Dani Ceballos heading back to Real Madrid, Arsenal need to bring in a new central midfielder. Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira are expected to leave on permanent deals after spending time on loan last season so at least one midfielder is needed.

I still don’t think Granit Xhaka should be a regular starter for the Gunners so Arteta’s priority should be finding a top-class partner to bring the best out of Thomas Partey.

If Arsenal can solve these problem areas, keep hold of Martin Odegaard and get Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang firing again, a top-four finish should be the minimum requirement next season.