Arsenal’s season has been a series of developments and disappointments. The disappointments being that the Gunners could not challenge for the league title and even though they sit second, they lay a massive 10 points behind league leaders Chelsea, who look all set to win the league; this comes alongside an exit from the Champions League. The developments, on the other hand, have been of significant notability as they are now second in the league and are in the FA Cup final for the second year running.

This season Arsenal have overcome many hurdles, which were a constant cause of disappointment in the seasons gone by. However, some issues still need addressing in the summer and, by effectively addressing those issues, Arsene Wenger’s men are all but geared up for a hugely promising season of 2015-16.

Overcoming what seemed to be an unceasing obstacle of winning away from home against the top four sides was fairly accomplished this season, as Arsenal put in some stellar performances away at Manchester City and Manchester United in the Premier League and the FA Cup respectively. Moreover, Arsenal showed that they too can sit back, defend and play on the counter when coming up against the top four sides.

There has been increased competition for places in the Arsenal camp. This is best showcased by Theo Walcott’s situation, where has has found it very hard to reinstate himself in Wenger’s starting eleven. Competition is evident when a player of Walcott’s caliber finds it tough to cement his place in the starting eleven. In other instances, Nacho Monreal has been nothing short of a revelation this season as he’s put in fantastic performances, be it at his preferred left-back position or as a makeshift centre-back, when needed.

The introduction of young Spanish right-back, Hector Bellerin to the first team fold has been a huge positive. Bellerin has gone from strength to strength since making his debut against Borrusia Dortmund in the Champions League. He has very much shown his superiority in talent and  has rightly proved Arsene Wenger’s decision to loan out Carl Jenkinson.

In January, Arsenal’s back line saw another necessary addition in the form of Gabriel. The Brazilian has come in handy and has done well to fill in when called upon, even though he’s perceived to be Per Mertesacker’s eventual replacement come next season.

The major change, which was Arsene Wenger’s masterstroke and arguably the most effective alteration, has been the decision to give Francis Coquelin another chance in the starting eleven. Coquelin has not looked back since, as his re-introduction has proved to be a game changer for Arsenal. The French midfielder has been the defensive pillar guarding the Arsenal back line. He has maintained midfield stability in the absence of club captain Mikel Arteta and has ensured Arsenal’s midfield, as a whole, remains a formidable unit.

The truth remains, however, that Arsenal will need another addition in the defensive midfield department if they are to challenge for major honors next season. A competition in that area would work wonders and increase their chances in all competitions. 

Another important player contributing to Arsenal's late surge this season is Olivier Giroud. The French striker looks to have finally won the confidence of the Arsenal faithful after scoring against big teams, something he was continuously criticized for. His return from an injury he picked up early in the season has seen some truly outstanding displays and a fantastic goalscoring record. Giroud has been one of the most in form players in recent months, as his goals have been ever so crucial in the run in.

Moreover, the former Montpelier man has shown huge collective improvement in all aspects of his game and is now a source of instant impact, even after coming off the bench. Olivier Giroud, after three years of putting immense effort, has finally established himself as Arsenal’s main man up front and, with the fans’ backing, there is much more to come from a player who is in the prime of his career. 

All in all, considering Arsenal's late surge this season coupled with the requisite signings in the summer and the ability to take this season’s form into next season, Arsenal Football Club is in a good stead heading for what is a crucial and immensely promising 2015-16 season. 

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About the author
Jagjeet Singh
Football, Futbol , Calcio, Soccer in general.. You can follow me on Twitter - @JagjeetSUberoi