Manchester United legend Gary Neville has criticized Arsenal’s forwards, claiming they are not good enough following the club’s Carabao Cup semi-final exit to Newcastle United on Wednesday.
Newcastle triumphed 2-0 in the second leg at St. James’ Park, securing a 4-0 aggregate victory after also winning the first leg 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium last month. Goals from Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon sealed the win for Eddie Howe’s side.
Neville highlighted Arsenal’s lack of potency up front, saying, “This has shone a massive spotlight on the toothlessness of Arsenal’s forward players compared to what we’re seeing at the other end of the pitch.”
He also called for Arsenal to strengthen their forward line this summer, noting, “They have to [strengthen in the position] this summer. I was supportive of them not panicking, finding the player they want, I get that. But when they bid for Ollie Watkins, they are sending a message to the rest of the squad that the ones up front aren’t good enough. They were never going to get him anyway.”
Arsenal failed to bring in a top striker during the recently concluded January transfer window, despite calls for manager Mikel Arteta to sign a proven goalscorer.