Winter Transfer Speculation and Shit.

[Power n Glory]

What are some of you saving up to be? Marriage guidance counsellors? In which case if you are going to refer to an opposition manager as "Jose", then could you please refer to our own manager as Arsène (rather than Wenger). Or better still, le Boss.

Even if Maureen was right, which he wasn't and isn't, Wenger is our manager so we support him regardless. Maureen is somebody else's manager so we don't support him. Which bit is complicated? I just don't get why fans want to be "fair" about anything? What's the point of that? You can't be a fan and be fair, surely? Fair people are observers, not fans.

NQ...have you always supported this clubs transfer policy? It's not regardless. When talking to rival fans, it's a different matter but this is a discussion amongst Arsenal fans and we haven't all agreed on the way this club is run.

Mourinho wasn't right, he offered up a weaker argument and it was childish but he may be trying to wind Wenger up. Would prefer the boss to side step such issues because I don't know who he's appealing to when he talks of fairness but he won't get any sympathy.

[Niall_Quinn]

NQ...have you always supported this clubs transfer policy? It's not regardless. When talking to rival fans, it's a different matter but this is a discussion amongst Arsenal fans and we haven't all agreed on the way this club is run.

Mourinho wasn't right, he offered up a weaker argument and it was childish but he may be trying to wind Wenger up. Would prefer the boss to side step such issues because I don't know who he's appealing to when he talks of fairness but he won't get any sympathy.

Yeah, I get your point but I don't think it applies on this occasion. We can fight about who Wenger signs or doesn't sign for our club, fair enough. But there's a chav in this mix so we are against the chav by default surely? I agree about managers being careful of what is said in public and using the media properly. But I think Wenger did in this case.

[Power n Glory]

Yeah, I get your point but I don't think it applies on this occasion. We can fight about who Wenger signs or doesn't sign for our club, fair enough. But there's a chav in this mix so we are against the chav by default surely? I agree about managers being careful of what is said in public and using the media properly. But I think Wenger did in this case.

Jose is an ass and I'd love to see Wenger put him in his place. He has the wit and intelligence to do so and think he's gone about this incorrectly. Talk of the January transfer window, strengthening rivals, either way I cut it, Wenger hasn't got a leg to stand on. Can anyone say he's right given our past transfer dealings?

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

Mata has completed his move :sick:

[Ollie the Optimist]

So the Mata deal has gone through.


The more i look at it, the more to me it seems exactly like the judas deal. selling your best player from last season to a direct rival to strengthen them yet the reactions to both deals are totally different.

[GP]

So the Mata deal has gone through.


The more i look at it, the more to me it seems exactly like the judas deal. selling your best player from last season to a direct rival to strengthen them yet the reactions to both deals are totally different.

Nah, this one is far worse.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Nah, this one is far worse.

well i suppose so, AW was left with no choice but to sell judas, mourinho decided to sell mata.

[Özim]

So the Mata deal has gone through.


The more i look at it, the more to me it seems exactly like the judas deal. selling your best player from last season to a direct rival to strengthen them yet the reactions to both deals are totally different.

Yeah it's exactly the same, I forgot Mata was scoring all of their goals, winning them most of their games and playing every single game! :lol:

[Ollie the Optimist]

Yeah it's exactly the same, I forgot Mata was scoring all of their goals, winning them most of their games and playing every single game! :lol:

in the last two years, they won both european cups and an fa cup with Mata being voted their player of the season. i'd say thats pretty much the same.

amazing how you are making excuses though for mourinho strengthening a direct rival (he is, no denying that whatsoever) yet called for AW to be sacked for doing the same

[Munchies]

Yeah it's exactly the same, I forgot Mata was scoring all of their goals, winning them most of their games and playing every single game! :lol:

:haha:
--

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be2wnDKCEAAQOmV.jpg:large

[Özim]

in the last two years, they won both european cups and an fa cup with Mata being voted their player of the season. i'd say thats pretty much the same.

amazing how you are making excuses though for mourinho strengthening a direct rival (he is, no denying that whatsoever) yet called for AW to be sacked for doing the same
Answer me these questions:

1) Did he score most of their goals this season?
2) Did he create most of their goals this season?
3) Did he win them a large percentage of games this season?
4) Did he play most of their games this season?

Incidentally you said think Cazorla is just as good as him and worth as much and yes he's been hit and miss, yet you claim Mata is their best player, can you clarify what you mean here?

[Özil's Panoramic View]

The chavs, who happen to be one of our title rivals this season, have weakened by this transfer, IMO.

The mancs, who are 14 points adrift and are completely dogshit this season, have just overspent on an over rated midget in a desperate move to consolidate a Europa spot or, possibly, give themselves a faint shot at the final CL spot.

Good for us I say.

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

:lol:
*Vile image*


I just vomited a little.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Answer me these questions:

1) Did he score most of their goals this season?
2) Did he create most of their goals this season?
3) Did he win them a large percentage of games this season?
4) Did he play most of their games this season?

Incidentally you said think Cazorla is just as good as him and worth as much and yes he's been hit and miss, yet you claim Mata is their best player, can you clarify what you mean here?

i think he and Santi as a good as each other, but i bet if we sold Santi you would be in uproar especially if we sold him to united like chelsea have with mata.

if you are voted player of the year, put into the PFA team of the year and nominated for PFA player of the year it probably means that people think you have been one of the best players of the year. its not that hard to work out is it? mourinho has strengthened a direct rival, yet you seem to think thats fine, yet when AW did it, you called for him to be sacked

[Niall_Quinn]

:haha:
--

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be2wnDKCEAAQOmV.jpg:large

He's like a fan boy posing with his idol, all starstruck and grinning like an idiot. Mata looks composed though.

[Özim]

i think he and Santi as a good as each other, but i bet if we sold Santi you would be in uproar especially if we sold him to united like chelsea have with mata.

if you are voted player of the year, put into the PFA team of the year and nominated for PFA player of the year it probably means that people think you have been one of the best players of the year. its not that hard to work out is it? mourinho has strengthened a direct rival, yet you seem to think thats fine, yet when AW did it, you called for him to be sacked

I wouldn't want to sell Cazorla, for a start he plays quite often, however he's not been that amazing this season, he's been very hit and miss, despite his undoubted talent.

You were however claiming that Mata was their best player but that Cazorla was worth as much despite him being hit and miss, so how can Mata be their best player?

The fact is that Mata has hardly featured this season and thus has had little or no impact on where they are and can't be considered their best player.

Yes he's strengthened Man U, I'd argue they're not a rival though, they're 14 points behind us and have no chance of winning the title.

Wenger sold RVP who was a regular, the guy who was winning us most of our games and our real only goalscorer of any note, we'd not proved we could perform without him before we sold him. Mata isn't a key player for Chelsea, they have Oscar, Hazard and William, more than enough talent and the players who have been the ones responsible for Chelsea's wins this season, not Mata.

Mourinho didn't see Mata fitting into his team, didn't play him and Chelsea have done fine without him, so he sold him because he wasn't going to play him and was apparently keeping FFP regulations in mind as well. Man U wanted him paid big money, everyone's happy.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be27A9GCUAAeQv_.jpg

' I have no idea what's happening'

:lol:

[Power n Glory]

i think he and Santi as a good as each other, but i bet if we sold Santi you would be in uproar especially if we sold him to united like chelsea have with mata.

if you are voted player of the year, put into the PFA team of the year and nominated for PFA player of the year it probably means that people think you have been one of the best players of the year. its not that hard to work out is it? mourinho has strengthened a direct rival, yet you seem to think thats fine, yet when AW did it, you called for him to be sacked

Mata is surplus to requirements at Chelsea. They already have players that can play in his position without having to buy. We're still without a top striker and missing someone like RVP. It's no comparison.

[Power n Glory]

Where will Mata play for Manure anyway? Will he have a massive presence? They have number 10 style players in Rooney, Kagawa and RVP.

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

The one chance to kick Utd under the table and Mourinho strengthens them. Unbelievable.

What a vile, short sighted cunt.

[Munchies]

Chelsea end up paying £20m for Mohamed Salah because Liverpool raised their offer for Salah to £18.5m late last week. [Mail]

Wow ! :haha:

[Niall_Quinn]

Transfer market has gone crazy. And it just so happens to coincide with a bunch of arab crooks gaining access and generating competition for a Russian crook. Coincidence.

[Niall_Quinn]

Arsene Wenger never ceases to amaze.
For most of the time he is one of the most erudite, astute and affable managers you could possibly wish to come across.
Then suddenly he throws his toys out of the pram and spouts like a spoiled brat.
For him to bleat that Chelsea selling Juan Mata to Manchester United is 'unfair' is just plain silly.
FOTB Arsene!
If he were to argue against the idea of a January transfer window as whole he might have a point. But as if he would not take advantage of buying a player before it closes to boost Arsenal’s title hopes.
That is if Wenger, a perennial procrastinator during the January window, can make up his mind in time.

How many £50 notes did Jose stuff in your wallet this time Rob? Really, get a proper job already. Part in bold above is what Wenger has always argued against, but Rob is asleep at the wheel and in auto-journalism mode as usual. Fifteenth worst "journalist" in the world for sure. It's so easy trotting out this crap for two paymasters. It's not him, it's his wagging tail I can't stand. And his inability (which some mistake as a lack of desire) to read. I think the idea here is principle should be a crucifix if it is to be real. In which case, why is Rob taking cash from the Daily Idi Amin? Having you cake and eating it, just an innocents bystander in the service of truth gov - honest! Every other club is taking advantage of the January moneygoround, so if Wenger is to support the principle he must chuck his duty to do the best for Arsenal out the window and demonstrate intent to Rob Shepherd (man of high principle). Otherwise Rob views it as chatting shit. He should know.

Seriously though, is there a journalist who doesn't charge by the cumshot in the building? Anywhere? Anyone?

[Niall_Quinn]

Sounds like Draxler is done. But I don't really see how that helps us in the short to medium term, by which I mean the fuck-me-thats-impossible schedule we have in Feb/ Mar. I'm delighted the club are splashing another £30mill hot on the heels of the Ozil transfer, let;s face it - after almost a decade they owe us big. So this is how it should be. But we still need cover (alternative) for Giroud and Draxler isn't that - yet. So I hope to see Benteke signed too, or fuck, he's a lazy tosser but even Berbatov would do at a push. Something we can stick on the pitch in the next two months who could at least not be a postman.

[Syn]

Wenger wasn't kidding - you guys are delusional.

Reporter: "pretty much a done deal for draxo then?"
Arsene: "Nah."
Reporter: "upfront for the saints game then yeah?"
Arsene: "What? No, I'm not spending £37m on an attacking mid".
Reporter: "gonna give him the no. 14 shirt now that Theo's dead?"
Arsene: "I'm not buying him."

Arsenal fans: "omg he smiled!!!!"'

[Niall_Quinn]

Nah, it's breaking everywhere now. Deal is done. I assume it's a good deal based on Wenger being parted from £30mill. Otherwise I really don't know too much about this kid.

[WMUG]

Sounds like Draxler is done.

http://hillsdalebankbarbq.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/The-Sauce.jpg

?

[Niall_Quinn]

Mail, Telegraph, Mirror, etc.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Wenger wasn't kidding - you guys are delusional.

Reporter: "pretty much a done deal for draxo then?"
Arsene: "Nah."
Reporter: "upfront for the saints game then yeah?"
Arsene: "What? No, I'm not spending £37m on an attacking mid".
Reporter: "gonna give him the no. 14 shirt now that Theo's dead?"
Arsene: "I'm not buying him."

Arsenal fans: "omg he smiled!!!!"'
:d

:lol: That made me chuckle. Bloody hope it happens though.... Assuming it is, I see no reason why he can't have a Reyes style impact (for this season at least) and I do believe he is more talented than Reyes and probably a little more mentally secure and off his mum's breast milk by now.... one would hope.

[Xhaka Can’t]

:lol: Cheeky guy. There is nothing wrong with my comprehension skills and I get the context. This is what I'm basing my argument on.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25863298

It was simple question from the journalist...'are you surprised by the Mata deal'. There were many ways to answer that without talking about 'fairness' because we've used the January transfer window for our own gain and sold/loaned players to Prem clubs as well. The last three Prem holders have all benefited from top players we've sold them. Is that not true? Don't gloss over that part of the argument.

It's not as if we can't use the window to strengthen our squad so I don't agree with his argument and plenty of journalists can pull him up on that. He's making it sound as if Chelsea have an advantage over us when the window is open for everybody. He has a fundamental point of view and he's used Chelsea as an example and I'm inclined to disagree. Is that okay with you? It's not as if this is the first time I've disagreed with Wenger's views on the transfer window and don't act as if you've always been in agreement with it as well. Take those 'true Arsenal fan' taunts somewhere else. I don't have to agree with you or Wenger on everything.
He is against the transfer window framework. The Mata transfer illustrates clearly his rationale of why he is against the framework and he goes on to demonstrate how it is in his opinion a flawed framework. Clearly he himself has to operate within it himself and has done so - because he has to.

The logic here is if there is one window - you have to live by the decisions you make at the beginning of the season. A reason why the windows were introduced in the first place was so that big yeams couldn'y buy all the playa all the time whenever the season wasn't going their way. It also was designed to help give smaller clubs some stability so that their players couldn't up sticks and leave to a bigger club after they put in a couple of good efforts that drew attention to themselves.

So why not go the whole hog and have the one window - reducing the amount of opportunities big clubs can buy success - or their way out of trouble?

The transfer window situation as it is now, is much better than what we had in the past, but there are unintended consequences - one of which was highlighted by Wenger - matter of factly and without recourse to dragging this into the gutter by making a personal attack on anybody.

[AFC Leveller]

Has anyone seen this Daxler guy regularely and if so, what is he like? wide player with pace? goal scorer outwide? attacking midfielder? play maker?

[Heisenberg]

I don't know enough about Draxler to determine how good he is, or what his best position is or will be, or whatever. I'm sceptical towards the prospect of paying 35m or more on a 20 year old, who isn't yet playing in the position he would be groomed for, but I will trust Arsene's judgement if he does go for him. With that said, I still think we need someone else, as a stopgap or a backup to play up front, for now, rather than when Draxler's "ready". Someone cheap, if we can.

[Munchies]

Essien fails his AC medical :lol:

Returning to Chelsea

[GP]

:doh:

[GP]

Apparently this is how he arrived for his medical...

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be5xxt5IUAAOpR2.jpg

:doh:

[Power n Glory]

He is against the transfer window framework. The Mata transfer illustrates clearly his rationale of why he is against the framework and he goes on to demonstrate how it is in his opinion a flawed framework. Clearly he himself has to operate within it himself and has done so - because he has to.

The logic here is if there is one window - you have to live by the decisions you make at the beginning of the season. A reason why the windows were introduced in the first place was so that big yeams couldn'y buy all the playa all the time whenever the season wasn't going their way. It also was designed to help give smaller clubs some stability so that their players couldn't up sticks and leave to a bigger club after they put in a couple of good efforts that drew attention to themselves.

So why not go the whole hog and have the one window - reducing the amount of opportunities big clubs can buy success - or their way out of trouble?

The transfer window situation as it is now, is much better than what we had in the past, but there are unintended consequences - one of which was highlighted by Wenger - matter of factly and without recourse to dragging this into the gutter by making a personal attack on anybody.

I understand his argument but I disagree with it.

If we had an under performing player sitting on our benches and causing problems in the ranks because he's upset about not playing, I'd want him out.

We also have an opportunity to strengthen our squad with a striker if we're willing to put in the work and that boosts our chances of winning the title. We should be taking advantage of it.

Wenger's appeal to the media and using Chelsea as an example is a bad idea. It's like when Platini kept on using us as an example of why the under 16s contract situation had to change. I understood his argument and agree that big clubs shouldn't be able to sign up young players before they've signed professional contracts with their home clubs, but we operated within the rules. Platini constantly mentioning us made me think he had a problem with Wenger and our club. He was spot on with his argument though and as a UEFA representative, he's within his rights to say such things and change the rules.

Wenger is talking to media pundits about a rival club and they have no power to change the rules, they have no interest of changing the rules and they take press opportunities to spin stories and sensationalise. What else did he think would happen when he goes on to talk again about Chelsea's transfers? Didn't he learn from the whole 'voyeurism' saga with Jose? They have no interest in his philosophy. I guy with his experience should know by now that he's being set up for a trap and that's if he has no intention of digging at Chelsea. Take this sort of think to the decision makers like the FA, UEFA and FIFA. Not to swine in form of he press.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Has anyone seen this Daxler guy regularely and if so, what is he like? wide player with pace? goal scorer outwide? attacking midfielder? play maker?

'e's quick, innit!

[Munchies]

Mata has put out a long letter thanking everyone at Chelsea, even Mourinho.


Hi everyone, As you can imagine this is a very important day in my life, and with these lines I would like to express the memories and emotions that come to me as I write.

This letter is written from my heart, and first of all I would like to say that I will never forget all the affection given to me by the Chelsea fans. From the very first day until the last. With your support and affection I have grown up as a player and I have had an amazing time both on and off the pitch. I will always feel the gratitude towards you. Always. No words are enough to give back all the things I have received.

There has been plenty of good moments: the FA Cup, my first trophy as a Blue; the immense happiness of winning titles for the first time in the club's history, such as that magical Champions League night in Munich and the Europa League... On the other hand, I have experienced some complicated situations from a personal point of view, mainly during the last six months.

Every message I got through the social media, every nice word you have said to me on the street, and of course, your support in the stadium, has made me feel incredibly proud of the Chelsea fans; you deserve a team like the one you've got, with so many fantastic players.

I won't forget the faith you put in me when I was given the player of the year award the last two seasons. I feel really proud and I will never forget those nights.

Thank you so much for the way you have treated me, you have been unbelievable. I hope you understand that after going through a complicated and, for me, new situation in the last few months,

I believe this is the best choice in order to carry on with my football career and to keep enjoying this sport. Before last summer, my intention was to stay here for a long time; as long as the club wanted me to, and to keep winning trophies for Chelsea FC.

This is how happy I was in the club and in the city. However, as you all know, things changed after the preseason. From feeling like an important player, I started to experience some difficult situations and I felt unable to help the team to the extent that I wanted and was used to. Obviously, I fully respect the circumstances.

Football is a team sport and it's not easy to play regularly in such a good squad. In sports you may win or lose, but the most important thing is to give everything. I hope you know and feel that I have always done so. In every game, in every training session, without exception.

I have always tried my best for the club. I would like to emphasise the affection, admiration and respect that I've had for my former team mates since the first day. I want to thank the captains for their help and understanding at all times. They made me feel comfortable when I arrived and they have supported me throughout the difficult times this season.

I thank all my former team mates for these two and a half years and I wish them the best, personally and professionally, for the future. Of course I have been closer to some of them, but the most important thing is that my years in Chelsea have left me with great friends.

Friends forever, football rivalries aside. I also want to highlight the day-to-day job of every member of the Chelsea staff: medical team, kit men, staff at Cobham and Stamford Bridge, media and marketing department, Chelsea TV team... All of them are very important in making this club a great one.

Thank you for your treatment and your efforts to make the life of the players easier. Furthermore, thanks to every manager I have had the pleasure to work with during my time here. They have all been a big help for my progression as a player. I have always respected their decisions, whatever they were; they made me more mature and a stronger person.

You learn from everything, and certain situations make you think about other team mates who are coping with similar situations more regularly. Thank you Andre for giving me the opportunity to join Chelsea FC. Without your support, none of this would have happened.

To Robbie and Rafa, for their unlimited trust in me. And to Jose, for making me a stronger player, because in difficult moments, I have learnt to remain positive and to keep working hard. Lastly, I want to thank the Club, and in particular its owner, Roman Abramovich, for trusting me and making an important investment when signing me.

Also for their understanding regarding my situation over the last months. I'm very glad to have been part of the squad that made his and our dream come true: winning the Champions League on that unforgettable night in Munich. Additionally, my years in Chelsea have been profitable for the club, which I'm very pleased about. I want to make clear that the stage that now comes to an end has been extremely important for me, personally and professionally.

Although many of you, like myself, never thought this moment would come, this is football and a new chapter is about to begin. I would have liked to say good bye to all of you in the stadium, or in a press conference, but it has not been possible. I'm sure,

i will be able to do it in the future, because is what you deserve. Evidently, today is a day of mixed feelings, remembering the past and looking forward to the future and what it has to bring.

I look forward to being happy and to enjoy what I like the most: play football. I will never forget my time in Chelsea and the affection I take with me, I will keep forever. I wish you the best. A big hug to all of you.

THANK YOU so much,
Juan



RVC just said the little boy made him leave :haha:

[Xhaka Can’t]

I understand his argument but I disagree with it.

If we had an under performing player sitting on our benches and causing problems in the ranks because he's upset about not playing, I'd want him out.

We also have an opportunity to strengthen our squad with a striker if we're willing to put in the work and that boosts our chances of winning the title. We should be taking advantage of it.

Wenger's appeal to the media and using Chelsea as an example is a bad idea. It's like when Platini kept on using us as an example of why the under 16s contract situation had to change. I understood his argument and agree that big clubs shouldn't be able to sign up young players before they've signed professional contracts with their home clubs, but we operated within the rules. Platini constantly mentioning us made me think he had a problem with Wenger and our club. He was spot on with his argument though and as a UEFA representative, he's within his rights to say such things and change the rules.

Wenger is talking to media pundits about a rival club and they have no power to change the rules, they have no interest of changing the rules and they take press opportunities to spin stories and sensationalise. What else did he think would happen when he goes on to talk again about Chelsea's transfers? Didn't he learn from the whole 'voyeurism' saga with Jose? They have no interest in his philosophy. I guy with his experience should know by now that he's being set up for a trap and that's if he has no intention of digging at Chelsea. Take this sort of think to the decision makers like the FA, UEFA and FIFA. Not to swine in form of he press.
If Morinho wants to make a tit of himself, by going on about voyeurs and fixtures, that's his business. And how do you know he does not take this sort of issue to the decision makers? I'm betting he regularly does.

Wenger should be free to express whatever he wants without having to modify his actions to take account of a classless piece of shit who if he didn't use this as an opportunity to try to drag Wenger into the gutter - would use something else. It is what he does.

[Power n Glory]

If Morinho wants to make a tit of himself, by going on about voyeurs and fixtures, that's his business. And how do you know he does not take this sort of issue to the decision makers? I'm betting he regularly does.

Wenger should be free to express whatever he wants without having to modify his actions to take account of a classless piece of shit who if he didn't use this as an opportunity to try to drag Wenger into the gutter - would use something else. It is what he does.

Is that important to the argument? Does it matter if he speaks to UEFA about this? This is about what's said in the press and how their agenda differs from his, assuming he's being sincere. I've seen him swerve questions on player transfers knowing it cause problems so I don't know why he keeps choosing Chelsea as his soapbox moment if he knows Jose is the type to get personal. He's free to do what he wants but I personally think it's foolish to keep falling into the same trap regarding these issues.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Essien fails his AC medical :lol:

Returning to Chelsea

He'll do anything to stay close to Daddy.

[Xhaka Can’t]

Is that important to the argument? Does it matter if he speaks to UEFA about this? This is about what's said in the press and how their agenda differs from his, assuming he's being sincere. I've seen him swerve questions on player transfers knowing it cause problems so I don't know why he keeps choosing Chelsea as his soapbox moment if he knows Jose is the type to get personal. He's free to do what he wants but I personally think it's foolish to keep falling into the same trap regarding these issues.

Trap? What trap? Mouribho rambled non sensical shit about fixtures and looked like a tit. And the comment I made on speaking to Uefa about it was a direct response to a point you made about taking it to them - I'm just suggesting that he has done.

[Power n Glory]

You've missed the point. Forget it.

[Xhaka Can’t]

You've missed the point. Forget it.

I respond to a point you made, you say the point is irrelevant.

Priceless. :haha:

[Power n Glory]

I respond to a point you made, you say the point is irrelevant.

Priceless. :haha:

And you question my comprehension skills?

Think. If you know the media has a different agenda and look to stir up trouble, why get on your soapbox about transfer policies and then use Chelsea as an example knowing they can twist it? They're a useless audience.

You missed the point, so forget it.

[Heisenberg]

Berbatov not in the Fulham FA Cup squad, again.

[Xhaka Can’t]

And you question my comprehension skills?

Think. If you know the media has a different agenda and look to stir up trouble, why get on your soapbox about transfer policies and then use Chelsea as an example knowing they can twist it? They're a useless audience.

You missed the point, so forget it.
If not about this, the media will stir up trouble about something else. It is their modus operendi. Best have them stirring up trouble over a point you want 'out there'. And like the media that will always stir up trouble - Mourinho will always oblige by dragging it into the gutter - and when you look at how he did it - HE looked like the tit.

[Özim]

If not about this, the media will stir up trouble about something else. It is their modus operendi. Best have them stirring up trouble over a point you want 'out there'. And like the media that will always stir up trouble - Mourinho will always oblige by dragging it into the gutter - and when you look at how he did it - HE looked like the tit.

There we go with the hate again, your points my carry more weight if you didn't point out how much you hated Mourinho in almost every post.

[Xhaka Can’t]

There we go with the hate again, your points my carry more weight if you didn't point out how much you hated Mourinho in almost every post.

Second half of the tag team arrives...

At least I channel my hate towards our opponents. In any event - if going on about how a fixture computer and how it is so unfair isn't the ramblings of a tit - it is pretty damned close.

[Özim]

Second half of the tag team arrives...

At least I channel my hate towards our opponents. In any event - if going on about how a fixture computer and how it is so unfair isn't the ramblings of a tit - it is pretty damned close.

Maybe it is, but it's more your viewpoint that Mourinho was unprovoked that I'm confused about. Wenger categorically talked about his team, pointing out how unfair it was, it's not really surprising the manager of that team might be irritated by this.

It's like me calling someone a d*ck but saying it's not their fault it's because of society, it would still be annoying.

As I said before you can make your point about something without the need to rub someone up the wrong way, what Wenger said was always going to cause a reaction, I'm just surprised people think this isn't normal.

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

And Essien completes his medical. :lol:

[Power n Glory]

Maybe it is, but it's more your viewpoint that Mourinho was unprovoked that I'm confused about. Wenger categorically talked about his team, pointing out how unfair it was, it's not really surprising the manager of that team might be irritated by this.

It's like me calling someone a d*ck but saying it's not their fault it's because of society, it would still be annoying.

As I said before you can make your point about something without the need to rub someone up the wrong way, what Wenger said was always going to cause a reaction, I'm just surprised people think this isn't normal.

It shouldn't be a shock if you know the sort of character your dealing with.

When Plantini was attacking our transfer policy, I didn't see why he had to constantly mention our team even though he had a valid point. Made him seem bitter.

[Özim]

When Plantini was attacking our transfer policy, I didn't see why he had to constantly mention our team even though he had a valid point. Made him seem bitter.

Yeah totally agree, when you use a certain team as an example if makes it sounds as if they are a big part of the problem.

[Japan Shaking All Over]

And Essien completes his medical. :lol:

With your mob?

[Shaqiri Is Boss]

With your mob?

Good god no.

AC Milan.

[Munchies]

And Essien completes his medical. :lol:

:lol:

Milan are desperate that they'd sign him. He's had dodgy knees for nearly 5 years.

--
Arsenal will complete the Julian Draxler deal tonight [Al Jazeera]

[Penguin]

Wenger wasn't kidding - you guys are delusional.

Reporter: "pretty much a done deal for draxo then?"
Arsene: "Nah."
Reporter: "upfront for the saints game then yeah?"
Arsene: "What? No, I'm not spending £37m on an attacking mid".
Reporter: "gonna give him the no. 14 shirt now that Theo's dead?"
Arsene: "I'm not buying him."

Arsenal fans: "omg he smiled!!!!"'
:haha:

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Good god no.

AC Milan.

Phew....huh?

[milla]

Good god no.

AC Milan.

AC Milan is equivalent to PL's Crystal Palace IMO, picking up freebies and left overs. :lol:

[Syn]

Cardiff are getting Zaha on loan, Fabio da silva and Kenwyn Jones.

Laughable that Tan wouldn't five Malky MacKay any transfers in January and lets Soljkdjeiejsr get new players in. Gives them a fighting chance to stay up at least. Zaha should be good.

[GP]

Wenger :doh:

[IBK]

I understand his argument but I disagree with it.

If we had an under performing player sitting on our benches and causing problems in the ranks because he's upset about not playing, I'd want him out.

We also have an opportunity to strengthen our squad with a striker if we're willing to put in the work and that boosts our chances of winning the title. We should be taking advantage of it.

Wenger's appeal to the media and using Chelsea as an example is a bad idea. It's like when Platini kept on using us as an example of why the under 16s contract situation had to change. I understood his argument and agree that big clubs shouldn't be able to sign up young players before they've signed professional contracts with their home clubs, but we operated within the rules. Platini constantly mentioning us made me think he had a problem with Wenger and our club. He was spot on with his argument though and as a UEFA representative, he's within his rights to say such things and change the rules.

Wenger is talking to media pundits about a rival club and they have no power to change the rules, they have no interest of changing the rules and they take press opportunities to spin stories and sensationalise. What else did he think would happen when he goes on to talk again about Chelsea's transfers? Didn't he learn from the whole 'voyeurism' saga with Jose? They have no interest in his philosophy. I guy with his experience should know by now that he's being set up for a trap and that's if he has no intention of digging at Chelsea. Take this sort of think to the decision makers like the FA, UEFA and FIFA. Not to swine in form of he press.

I have really thought about this issue, and I have to say that I think I know where Wenger is coming from. I remember going onto Blue Moon a while back and trying to argue with a bunch of real twats about why what the likes of Citeh and Chelsea are doing to football is fundamentally different to what we have been able to do in the past as a so-called 'big' club. It may sound like sour grapes - and maybe there's some truth in that if you are a smaller EPL club. But what Arsenal has never been able to do is to stockpile 30M plus players, and use their transfers to try to hurt the competition. In Citeh's case (and Real Madrid; Barca fall into this category), their spending power has distorted the market so much that even Europe's traditional big clubs can't compete. In Chelsea's case - I have no doubt that Mata's sale was indeed agreed to by Mourinho because it might mean a point or two against Chelsea's competitors. I am sorry, but when financially doped clubs start to be able directly to influence leagues in ways that are unrelated to performance on the pitch, football starts to die.

[Munchies]

We're linked with Sebastien Jung (German RB in the Bundesliga)

Seems like Sagna is off ? :unsure:

[Power n Glory]

I have really thought about this issue, and I have to say that I think I know where Wenger is coming from. I remember going onto Blue Moon a while back and trying to argue with a bunch of real twats about why what the likes of Citeh and Chelsea are doing to football is fundamentally different to what we have been able to do in the past as a so-called 'big' club. It may sound like sour grapes - and maybe there's some truth in that if you are a smaller EPL club. But what Arsenal has never been able to do is to stockpile 30M plus players, and use their transfers to try to hurt the competition. In Citeh's case (and Real Madrid; Barca fall into this category), their spending power has distorted the market so much that even Europe's traditional big clubs can't compete. In Chelsea's case - I have no doubt that Mata's sale was indeed agreed to by Mourinho because it might mean a point or two against Chelsea's competitors. I am sorry, but when financially doped clubs start to be able directly to influence leagues in ways that are unrelated to performance on the pitch, football starts to die.

A fair point and I suspect the same thing with Jose. But I don't think Wenger has a leg to stand on when we participate and sell our best players to the last three Prem title winners. I'm also unsure of what he's trying to achieve with these moments.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Maybe it is, but it's more your viewpoint that Mourinho was unprovoked that I'm confused about. Wenger categorically talked about his team, pointing out how unfair it was, it's not really surprising the manager of that team might be irritated by this.

It's like me calling someone a d*ck but saying it's not their fault it's because of society, it would still be annoying.

As I said before you can make your point about something without the need to rub someone up the wrong way, what Wenger said was always going to cause a reaction, I'm just surprised people think this isn't normal.pellegrini did the same.

He may have explained himself slightly better but he started off by talking about Chelsea specifically and also questioned the fairness of it.

Yet moron doesn't mention him or moan about him at all.

[Niall_Quinn]

A fair point and I suspect the same thing with Jose. But I don't think Wenger has a leg to stand on when we participate and sell our best players to the last three Prem title winners. I'm also unsure of what he's trying to achieve with these moments.

But there is a massive massive difference. All those players forced a move against the wishes of at least the manager, don't know about the board.

[Munchies]

"A deal for Draxler is in the offing. That's what we're hearing here at Sky Sports News." - Jim White

https://vine.co/v/Mubp2wuAtOY

In the offing? :bow:

[McNamara That Ghost...]

He's on his way!

Jim White knows his stuff. :unsure:

Honigstein said on BT that we were negotiating with Schalke too, apparently.

[Niall_Quinn]

Ads on sky are just ludicrous. Hundreds of channels spouting ads with little breaks for TV progs. Think I'll get rid of it. Only usually watch footie so forgot how bad subscription TV is.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

And now they keep losing the 'crunch clashes' to BT, they can't push their BLitW agenda with quite so much gusto.

[Marc Overmars]

Must say I am little bit shocked but pleased we are willing to spunk 30m+ on a promising 20 year old.

Times have certainly changed.

[Niall_Quinn]

Lol, Cabaye saga. Which Newcastle player should we put in a lowball bid for on 31st? Can't pass up another opportunity to piss off creepy.

[Niall_Quinn]

Kenwyne jones to Cardiff.

wenger :doh:

[Syn]

I have really thought about this issue, and I have to say that I think I know where Wenger is coming from. I remember going onto Blue Moon a while back and trying to argue with a bunch of real twats about why what the likes of Citeh and Chelsea are doing to football is fundamentally different to what we have been able to do in the past as a so-called 'big' club. It may sound like sour grapes - and maybe there's some truth in that if you are a smaller EPL club. But what Arsenal has never been able to do is to stockpile 30M plus players, and use their transfers to try to hurt the competition. In Citeh's case (and Real Madrid; Barca fall into this category), their spending power has distorted the market so much that even Europe's traditional big clubs can't compete. In Chelsea's case - I have no doubt that Mata's sale was indeed agreed to by Mourinho because it might mean a point or two against Chelsea's competitors. I am sorry, but when financially doped clubs start to be able directly to influence leagues in ways that are unrelated to performance on the pitch, football starts to die.

Balanced post.

Although I'm not sure the motives of Mourinho selling him are relevant and while what you say is true, it's not even what Wenger was hinting at. The logic of his reasoning is very simple. If you are able sell players mid-season where they have and have not played certain teams, there's more potential for these sort of strategic actions.

It's not just about the January transfer window either. The summer window doesn't shut until after the season starts, so he has been campaigning for that to stop for years too: http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/wenger-window-should-close-earlier

[Niall_Quinn]

That's certainly a big joke, the season kicking off without anyone knowing what the final squads are. Why would they even allow it! What could possibly be wrong with closing the window the day before kick off?

[Özim]

That's certainly a big joke, the season kicking off without anyone knowing what the final squads are. Why would they even allow it! What could possibly be wrong with closing the window the day before kick off?

Wenger wouldn't be able to tell us it doesn't shut until the 31st of August?

[She Wore A Yellow Ribbon]

And now they keep losing the 'crunch clashes' to BT, they can't push their BLitW agenda with quite so much gusto.

This.

For example, there's a round of premier league fixtures on Tuesday/Wednesday and Sky are showing a grand total of zero games live. We pay 40 quid a month.

That isn't bad. It's fucking shocking.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Have we signed any/all the playa yet?


Draxler's our man this window. Has to be tbh, looks sharp and quick, would fit into our style of play perfectly.

He reminds me of Cesc mixed with RVP.

Should be good!

[Edinburgh Gooner]

What time is this supposed press conference today?

[AFC Leveller]

Man ure will be significantly improved if they get Cabaye on top of Mata. IMO Cabaye is the best central midfielder in the league.

[AFC Leveller]

From the videos ive seen of the Drax, he's got a shot on him and makes some good froward runs.

[Xhaka Can’t]

The problem with you is you're unable to read between the lines either, if someone uses the term "unfair" it suggests someone is getting favourable treatment, not the case in this scenario.

Wenger talked about Chelsea, specified how it was unfair (i.e they unfairly gained an advantage) and how they could have sold him last week (why would they?) and have played Man U twice. Please explain to me what those two comments have to do with the rules?

He could have just said he doesn't think the January transfer window should exist without mentioning the rest, that would have been totally fine.


That's certainly a big joke, the season kicking off without anyone knowing what the final squads are. Why would they even allow it! What could possibly be wrong with closing the window the day before kick off?

The difficulty there is that the leagues have different start dates.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[I am invisible]

He's got a shot on him with both feet too! I really like the look of the lad - from parts of those clips you can see he'd fit in well with the give-and-go style we play when things get tighter, but he also has fantastic balance and tight control when dribbling for a big lad - I love the way he sees gaps and just powers through them. Looks like he'd be dangerous whether we're pressing opponents or hitting them on the counter.

In all honesty, if we did sign him now, I wouldn't be surprised if it was next season before we really saw the best from him (although I still think he could contribute this season), but he's got such huge potential, I think we should just get him secured if the chance is there to get him - he's already performing at a CL level, but given another couple of years I think he could be a monster...

[Power n Glory]

Reports saying Chelsea have a verbal agreement to sign Diego Costa.

[Globalgunner]

Reports saying Chelsea have a verbal agreement to sign Diego Costa.

Another case of spiteful stockpiling, though I can't see how Athletico would release him, unless Torres is in part exchange. Knowing Mourinho, he could buy Costa and still keep all his other strikers

[Power n Glory]

They can stockpile all they want. I think they’ll have trouble shifting those shit strikers.

[Munchies]

Reports saying Chelsea have a verbal agreement to sign Diego Costa.

fuck off you cunts.

Oh well, Suarez £70m release clause in the summer when Liverpool finish outside the top 4 :good:

[GP]

Chelsea are fucking scum.

[Özim]

Chelsea need a striker so it's no surprise they are being linked to one, they're current forwards aren't really scoring so it's a case of finding a decent one rather than stockpiling.

As for Costa, not a fan so not bothered if he goes elsewhere.

[Power n Glory]

fuck off you cunts.

Oh well, Suarez £70m release clause in the summer when Liverpool finish outside the top 4 :good:

He’d fit in at Chelsea. A new Drogba for Mourinho. I hope the reports are false but nothing we can do about it. We just have to look for the sort of players that will make our team better.

[Power n Glory]

Reports also saying we’re trying to offer Podolski for the Draxler deal.

[Özim]

Why would be trying to get rid of a striker, moreover why would we be trying to offload a striker for a player who isn't.

We should keep Podolski, he has an eye for goal, he may not have been that great since he arrived but he can get goals at least.

[I am invisible]

He’d fit in at Chelsea. A new Drogba for Mourinho. I hope the reports are false but nothing we can do about it. We just have to look for the sort of players that will make our team better.
Yeah, I agree - would be a good signing for the chavs (if true), and one they actually need for once. Would be interesting to see what the fallout there is though - can't see them being able to shift Torres of Eto'o in a hurry, on the wages they're likely to be on, but Lukaku could well be off, if Costa comes in?

Purely fantasy football here, but I would have loved to have brought Draxler and Costa to the club - I love the idea of having a front 3 where the two wide attackers (eg Draxler and Wakcott) have the ability / potential to play as CFs, and where we have a prolific CF (eg Costa) who also has a background of playing on the wings - I reckon that kind of setup would be a nightmare for defenders!

[I am invisible]

Why would be trying to get rid of a striker, moreover why would we be trying to offload a striker for a player who isn't.

We should keep Podolski, he has an eye for goal, he may not have been that great since he arrived but he can get goals at least.
Again, agreed. He may ultimately end up being a squad player for us, but he's the calibre of squad player we should be aiming for. In his first season in this team / league / country he bagged 16 goals and 11 assists, despite being regularly rotated and being subbed in almost every game - I know that may not tell the whole story of his contribution each game, but those are still big boy stats...

[Power n Glory]

Why would be trying to get rid of a striker, moreover why would we be trying to offload a striker for a player who isn't.

We should keep Podolski, he has an eye for goal, he may not have been that great since he arrived but he can get goals at least.

Just rumours so far but he doesn’t consider Podolski as a striker. Not an out and out one anyway. I guess Draxler would play on the left too. I doubt any of this is true. Draxler is unhappy because he’s played on the flanks but wants a more central role and there is no way he’d get that option here anyway. We’re not signing him.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be-rMeVIQAA-y5P.jpg

What a bitch :haha:

[Heisenberg]

Not keen on us offloading Podolski as a makeweight. If we are going to get people in, get them in addition to the decent players we have.

[Özim]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be-rMeVIQAA-y5P.jpg

What a bitch :haha:

If he hadn't been so cheap and paid for the parking, she wouldn't have been trying to get her money back in other ways!

Seriously 30k a week and he made her pay for the parking and spent £18 on the meal, talk about stingy!

[Syn]

What a bitch :haha:

footballers are stupid. Hope he went halfsies on the bill. Women like that are scum.

[GP]

Who knew footballers liked Nandos?

Bet her took her home to watch Scarface after.

[Power n Glory]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be-rMeVIQAA-y5P.jpg

What a bitch :haha:

Bet she slept with him anyway! Can't stand gold diggers!

Well, played kid.

[Marc Overmars]

Silly tart.

[Munchies]

Andros 'For England' Townsend, said he'd only get her a freddo bar :haha:


Nandos was too classy for her! I would of bought her a freddo and sent her packing!!
https://twitter.com/andros_townsend/status/427758750750244864

---

BTW, press conference at 2pm for the PUMA deal, might unveil the new kits.

[Syn]

Pretty sure he would've had a pop at goal a few times first.

[Munchies]

Pretty sure he would've had a pop at goal a few times first.

:haha:

--
Might aswell feed off the publicity:

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_JXyWCMAAPJxc.png

[GP]

Pretty sure he would've had a pop at goal a few times first.

Yeah he needs to work on his accuracy.

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Not that I'm one to talk but surely Januzaj could do better as a semi famous PL fooballer. She looks so plastic and fake.


In more important news Wenger responded to Mourinho BS about the fixture list being in our favour this morning at the presser:


Jose Mourinho's comments on Arsenal's favourable treatment by English football's fixture compilers receive a sharp response from Arsene Wenger. The Chelsea boss cited Arsenal's fixture list when responding to Wenger's views that the decision for The Blues to sell Juan Mata to Manchester United was unfair.

"It is simple - look at the fixtures and analyse it, I trust you will give an objective view," the Arsenal boss tells a news conference.

"You will see Arsenal are behind all the other teams. In the last five years all the objective studies that have been made show Arsenal had less rest than any other team in the top four.

"That is fact. It has nothing to do with my opinion."

Such a classly and dignified response when compared to the petty conspiratorial ramblings of Mourinho.

[GP]

Yes, he's a classy and dignified man. I'm sure it'll be turned against him by the small-minded though.

[Özim]

Not that I'm one to talk but surely Januzaj could do better as a semi famous PL fooballer. She looks so plastic and fake.


If he wasn't a footballer, he'd probably be struggling to get any tbf.

He's got ears like spock in that picture, he might do better if he was on Vulcan.

[Özim]

Not that I'm one to talk but surely Januzaj could do better as a semi famous PL fooballer. She looks so plastic and fake.


In more important news Wenger responded to Mourinho BS about the fixture list being in our favour this morning at the presser:



Such a classly and dignified response when compared to the petty conspiratorial ramblings of Mourinho.

Less rest in what sense, the season starts on one day and finishes on another, if you get more rest between one game you'll get less between another.

There's no context.

[Power n Glory]

We just need to put his team to the sword the next time we see them and that will be it.

[Ralpheroo72]

Jose Mourinho's comments on Arsenal's favourable treatment by English football's fixture compilers receive a sharp response from Arsene Wenger. The Chelsea boss cited Arsenal's fixture list when responding to Wenger's views that the decision for The Blues to sell Juan Mata to Manchester United was unfair.

"It is simple - look at the fixtures and analyse it, I trust you will give an objective view," the Arsenal boss tells a news conference.

"You will see Arsenal are behind all the other teams. In the last five years all the objective studies that have been made show Arsenal had less rest than any other team in the top four.

"That is fact. It has nothing to do with my opinion."

[The Emirates Gallactico]

If he wasn't a footballer, he'd probably be struggling to get any tbf.

He's got ears like spock in that picture, he might do better if he was on Vulcan.

When freaks like Peter Crouch are able to pull Abbey Clancy the world isn't fair. :(


Less rest in what sense, the season starts on one day and finishes on another, if you get more rest between one game you'll get less between another.

There's no context.

Because it's that simplistic right? :rolleyes:

That some teams don't have busier schedules with the FA Cup and CL?

And that the arrangement of fixture doesn't play a part in it?

Having a three days rest to face Crystal Palace at home after just facing Fulham at home is not equal to playing Liverpool and then Chelsea away in the space of three days.

It was completely disgraceful that we had to play City on Saturday morning after arriving back from Napoli on Thursday. You're dreaming if you think the likes of Mourinho or Ferguson wouldn't be moaning about that.

[Munchies]

Lol when I read 'That is a fact' I read it in Rafa's voice.

[Niall_Quinn]

Dear God no!


Arsene Wenger is keen to tie up a deal for France attacking midfielder Yoann Gourcuff this week.
The Arsenal boss is a long term admirer of the 27-year-oldb star, who has scored three goals in 13 league appearances this season.

Gourcuff is an alternative to Schalke's German star Julian Draxler who would cost considerably more, and is still injured for the next few weeks.

This is punishment for Kalou not being available any more. Or, fingers crossed, it is pure BS.

[Özim]

When freaks like Peter Crouch are able to pull Abbey Clancy the world isn't fair. :(



Because it's that simplistic right? :rolleyes:

That some teams don't have busier schedules with the FA Cup and CL?

And that the arrangement of fixture doesn't play a part in it?

Having a three days rest to face Crystal Palace at home after just facing Fulham at home is not equal to playing Liverpool and then Chelsea away in the space of three days.

It was completely disgraceful that we had to play City on Saturday morning after arriving back from Napoli on Thursday. You're dreaming if you think the likes of Mourinho or Ferguson wouldn't be moaning about that.

Trouble is what you seem to be forgetting is that TV dictates when games are played for big games, the fixture list is made and then TV takes it's pick and decides when it should be played for peak viewing figures.

[Özim]

Dear God no!



This is punishment for Kalou not being available any more. Or, fingers crossed, it is pure BS.

Gourcuff is a very good player to be fair, not a striker though. Wouldn't be against this as he is a quality player however.

[Niall_Quinn]

Gourcuff is a very good player to be fair, not a striker though. Wouldn't be against this as he is a quality player however.

Another Diaby would be ideal for us.

[Özim]

Another Diaby would be ideal for us.

There is that yes, but I'd rather have him in than nothing at all as our squad will struggle badly as it stands, we got really tired in December and struggled and really looked unconvincing, come February/March that's only going to get worse.

We need 1 or 2 fresh faces to give us an edge and allow us to rotate a bit more.

[Munchies]

'Nico Yennaris has joined Brentford for an undisclosed fee'

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivIvVwIhIyM/T-9ZNJ2vBGI/AAAAAAAAups/T19CCrVgB8k/s640/6848252217_fedf1d4227_z.jpg

Goodluck to him :wave: .

---
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_VgsIIEAA5_Tq.jpg

:lol:

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Chavtastic

[Munchies]

The Costa to Chelsea deal is gathering more news.

They're willing to offer Courtois on a permanent deal the other way plus cash.

Then again, they could just pay the release clause really

[milla]

The Costa to Chelsea deal is gathering more news.

They're willing to offer Courtois on a permanent deal the other way plus cash.

Then again, they could just pay the release clause really

They should just buy Alteltico Madrid and move to Spain. :coffee:

[The Emirates Gallactico]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be-hUakCEAI5LZG.jpg


All but confirmed the annoucement is going to be the Puma deal.

[GP]

Is this televised anywhere?

[Japan Shaking All Over]

Reports also saying we’re trying to offer Podolski for the Draxler deal.
There is no way we should be getting rid of Pods.....

[GP]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/puma-and-arsenal-announce-partnership

[Power n Glory]

There is no way we should be getting rid of Pods.....

It’s not a wise choice but I don’t think Wenger rates Podolski.

[Munchies]

http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/puma-and-arsenal-announce-partnership

Not bad that, big £££ coming in

Also, United fans are dreaming of the title now, RVC/Rooney/Mata/Fellaini(lol) are going to be fit enough to play a part against Palace.

[Munchies]

They've announced that Wenger is extending his contract.

[GP]

They've announced that Wenger is extending his contract.

Best news.

[AKBapologist]

They've announced that Wenger is extending his contract.

Link?

[Munchies]

Link?

https://twitter.com/johncrossmirror/status/427808118391963648

[Marc Overmars]

Puma. :bow:

http://static.fjcdn.com/gifs/Makin+it+rain+on+Transfer+deadline+day.+What+Wenge r+looked_280e19_4774550.gif

[GP]

Now they've announced a big money deal, surely they have to spend.

[Munchies]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_sGAvCQAA-GxK.jpg

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_uJtyCIAAfHRM.jpg

Seems legit.

[GP]

I'm... not built for Puma shirts...

[Munchies]

I'm... not built for Puma shirts...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HrnWC8zBcE

[GP]

:lol:

[Özim]

189 pages and no signings yet, if we are to make any I wonder why we always make our signings so late, I don't see any advantage to doing so.

If we don't, I guess it won't be too much of a surprise.

[Munchies]

189 pages and no signings yet, if we are to make any I wonder why we always make our signings so late, I don't see any advantage to doing so.

If we don't, I guess it won't be too much of a surprise.


You'd think the board would have learned from the summer.

---
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_zmRTCYAA5qMH.png

[Özim]

Hope the shorts are tight so I can see Sagna's sausage.

Okay then :unsure:

[GP]

That kit looks sexy as fuck.

Hope the shorts are tight so I can see Sagna's sausage.

And his spicy meatballs.

[Marc Overmars]

All the old men with beer bellies turning up in the top next season. :lol:

[fakeyank]

Bring Berba home tbh..

[Munchies]

'RUSH HOUR'

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Be_8-AWIQAAapf-.jpg

:haha: :haha: :haha:

[Marc Overmars]

Park. :doh:

Go away!

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

the only way to guarantee transfers coming in of top quality players in the positions we need is to take Wenger out of the negotiation process. Which is not really a slight on wenger as such but managers in general have no business in that regard, it should be a case of "Arsene give us a list of players you want in order of preference and we will go and make it happen"

[GP]

That's already how it happens.

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

no it isn't, although we have Dick Law who does the transfer negotiations on our behalf, it is well known that Wenger gets directly involved in the process and has before pulled plugs on deals because he has had second thoughts or does not think the club is getting value for money.

Dick Law has come out of negotiations with a club and a player's agent and has had to report directly back to Wenger.

[Marc Overmars]

https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1656008_10153786028325228_236953553_n.jpg

[Japan Shaking All Over]

https://scontent-b-lhr.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1656008_10153786028325228_236953553_n.jpg

:haha:

[Munchies]

http://distilleryimage9.ak.instagram.com/cd1969aa879311e3aac80a2ea8d96915_8.jpg
http://instagram.com/p/jr6-ePg_tb/
Salat pickup! Big game tomorrow ahead of some fantastic months of football. #wecandoit #alltheway #afc #arsenalfamily #arsenal #23 #stayontop

:lol: Sir Nick

[Gooner23]

what a tit

[IBK]

Balanced post.

Although I'm not sure the motives of Mourinho selling him are relevant and while what you say is true, it's not even what Wenger was hinting at. The logic of his reasoning is very simple. If you are able sell players mid-season where they have and have not played certain teams, there's more potential for these sort of strategic actions.

It's not just about the January transfer window either. The summer window doesn't shut until after the season starts, so he has been campaigning for that to stop for years too: http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/wenger-window-should-close-earlier

Yep. I get what Wenger's hinting at - but what has got the whole transfer issue back on his agenda is the subtext to the Mata move...

[Munchies]

@JanAageFjortoft

Spoke to an insider in Munich. Said Chelsea apparently have told Bayern to "name the price" for Toni Kroos. Told player "wages no problem"

---

Buying United's targets now :haha: . It'll cost around £25m+

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

So what if Januzaj spent 18 quid at nando's? Should he spend more than he needs to or more than the price of the meal? Nando's doesn't even have a proper plate waiting / waiter service for heavens sakes.

He's a footballer, so so what if he is there in a tracksuit...though it's not prime attire to impress a girl exactly and maybe the parking paid by the broad was for her own car in a parking place of her own accord. A silly story.


Spend some damn money Arsene. :d

[Munchies]

‏@skysports_bryan

We're told PSG deal agreed in principle for Yohan Cabaye is significantly higher than initial £14m offer. #nufc

---
Surprised United aren't bidding for him.

[Marc Overmars]

So what if Januzaj spent 18 quid at nando's? Should he spend more than he needs to or more than the price of the meal? Nando's doesn't even have a proper plate waiting / waiter service for heavens sakes.

He's a footballer, so so what if he is there in a tracksuit...though it's not prime attire to impress a girl exactly and maybe the parking paid by the broad was for her own car in a parking place of her own accord. A silly story.


Spend some damn money Arsene. :d

Anyone who wears a tracksuit for non-sporting activities should be shot.

[I am invisible]

Anyone who wears a tracksuit for non-sporting activities should be shot.
Unless they're a wise guy - then you're just asking for a mob war...

[Munchies]

BREAKING: Julian Draxler will not be leaving Schalke this month, Arsenal will have to wait until the summer. [BILD]

[GP]

Bild :lol:

The German Sun

[Munchies]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ea83FBL6Vek

What a spud :lol:

[AFC Leveller]

Newcastle about to lose their best player, PSG have offered something like 20m quid.

Feel for their fans really, they just cannot hold on to anybody once an offer comes in (a bit like us before this year to a certain extent) but im glad that **** Pardew will struggle now.

[Gooner23]

Newcastle about to lose their best player, PSG have offered something like 20m quid.

Feel for their fans really, they just cannot hold on to anybody once an offer comes in (a bit like us before this year to a certain extent) but im glad that **** Pardew will struggle now.

I'm happy with this. I really rate Cabaye and was worried United would nip in and take him, he's exactly the type of centre mid they are crying out for.

[AFC Leveller]

https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t1/1619194_10152008480977713_708823179_n.jpg

[LDG]

Anyone who wears a tracksuit for non-sporting activities should be shot.

Fortunately, most people who do wear tracksuits for leisure, end up shooting each other.

[AFC Leveller]

Antoine Griezmann underlined why he is being linked with a host of big-name clubs with a fantastic hat-trick in Real Sociedad's 4-0 victory over struggling Elche.

We were linked with him earlier in this month and i think PSG were also interested so expect a biddign war incase we do make an offer.

[Munchies]

Grenier (who was linked to us in the summer, and their president said would need a very big offer for) is being linked to Newcastle now :lol:

Durham: 'Arsenal should be thrown out of FA Cup for ticket prices' :haha:

[Power n Glory]

http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/1938541-why-barcelona-midfielder-alex-song-needs-transfer-to-revive-career

Idiot. Should never have left.

[Munchies]

http://m.bleacherreport.com/articles/1938541-why-barcelona-midfielder-alex-song-needs-transfer-to-revive-career

Idiot. Should never have left.

Anyone surprised ? :lol:

Remember when he tried to grab the trophy ? :haha:

Can't believe we got £15m for him, he's shit. Those assists to RVC were few and far between.

---
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BfEAfB6CIAAOcp5.png

ffs Giroud, all that warchest is now in an envelope :faint:

--
https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BfEH5d2CQAA8OMB.jpg

[Power n Glory]

Song was young and could play on the pivot as the Barca coach pointed out. I think he could have been even better in this team. No idea why the idiot would choose Barca of all clubs!

[Özim]

Remember when he tried to grab the trophy ? :haha:

That was classic :lol:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNKK4WLJqWY

Look at him rubbing his hands together with that cheesey smile on his face!

[The Emirates Gallactico]

Giroud looks so sexy in that suit. :coffee:


I would. :coffee:

[Gooner23]

Song was young and could play on the pivot as the Barca coach pointed out. I think he could have been even better in this team. No idea why the idiot would choose Barca of all clubs!

I think you answered your own question!

[Munchies]

Giroud looks so sexy in that suit. :coffee:


I would. :coffee:

Don't open the spoiler then
http://ilarge.listal.com/image/3818343/936full-olivier-giroud.jpg

[Heisenberg]

Poor Song, we kinda missed him at first but not anymore. We have plenty of good midfielders now. He'd only be useful for us now as a utility player, which alas is what he does now.

[selassie]

Song thought he was better than he was an was rumoured to be a disruptive influence. Did he honestly believe he would get in the Barca team?

Despite all of that he was a good player but I wouldn't want him now, he wouldn't get in the team.

Hleb was the same when he left and they dumped him in the reserves.

[I am invisible]

Decent individual, poor team player, IMO - wouldn't swap him for anyone in our current squad.

[Power n Glory]

Song thought he was better than he was an was rumoured to be a disruptive influence. Did he honestly believe he would get in the Barca team?

Despite all of that he was a good player but I wouldn't want him now, he wouldn't get in the team.

Hleb was the same when he left and they dumped him in the reserves.

I think he could battle Arteta and Flam for a spot. They’re both getting old. Now that we play a more organised and disciplined brand of football, I think he’d have been a beast. Oh well…..it was a stupid move and he should have known it was a move that would have stunted his growth. He should have looked to Yaya Toure as an example. Now that he’s at City, we’re seeing what he’s capable of.

[KSE Comedy Club]

Giroud :bow:

I fucking love this team and their WUMiness!

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Anyone who wears a tracksuit for non-sporting activities should be shot.

Perhaps they should have reported it in fashion weekly or women's own.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

Interesting thoughts on Song......not much in which I agree with, but that is very much old news.

Are we talking about a DCM because we are resigned to the fact Draxler will be here before the month is out, or because we are resigned to the fact that he isn't coming.....

[Master Splinter]

Song isn't hard-working, disciplined or intelligent enough to work in our current set-up. Would be an absolute liability.

He'll join Adebayor at Spurs soon.

Or Birmingham.

[KSE Comedy Club]

After reading this debate about song, I asked the two old boys I work with what they think of him.

They are both massive barca fans.

They both said that whilst he wasn't as skillful as biscuits, he's someone you can put on to do a job.

Not barca material but adequate enough.

[Master Splinter]

Sagan apparently close to signing a three-year contract according to reports from France:

http://sportwitness.ning.com/forum/topics/from-france-sagna-gunner-forever-arsenal-give-defender-offer-too-

Sagan :bow:.

[McNamara That Ghost...]

Wenget's smile. :haha:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hXtEd_UVpaU

It's on!

[Niall_Quinn]

That is a HUGE Wenger smile. It's either Ronaldo, Messi or Cattermole.

[Power n Glory]

Song isn't hard-working, disciplined or intelligent enough to work in our current set-up. Would be an absolute liability.

He'll join Adebayor at Spurs soon.

Or Birmingham.

I think you should take that back about Song. :lol:

Flams and Arteta played with very little intelligence or discipline today. Southampton passed us off the park with ease.

[JonasTC]

Messi is comming home :bow:

[McNamara That Ghost...]

That is a HUGE Wenger smile. It's either Ronaldo, Messi or Cattermole.

Cattermole is too good for us. I reckon Assombalonga.

[Xhaka Can’t]

That is a HUGE Wenger smile. It's either Ronaldo, Messi or Cattermole.

Or we're cashing in on Merts.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

[Master Splinter]

I think you should take that back about Song. :lol:

Flams and Arteta played with very little intelligence or discipline today. Southampton passed us off the park with ease.

One bad game (Arteta's first after an injury lay-off) at a tough opponent away from home in which most of the team was rubbish is vindication for years of Song's meandering lethargy and brainfarts? I don't think he's a bad player. He's almost like David Luiz in that any position you play him in, he just doesn't quite fit. An in-between player, if such a thing exists.

I don't think Flamini is good enough to be a regular either. He's basically a slightly better version of Scott Parker. Just because he's the only one who shows a bit of physicality, he seems to have been turned into a mythical figure who has transformed the team. Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all.

Arteta isn't perfect. Ideally, we'd have someone with Arteta's calmness in the centre, but with more mobility and athleticism. But our results and performances with Arteta in the side over the last three seasons have been much better than when he's been missing. It's not one of those factual anomalies you can twist, it bears out if you watch our games.

People still advocating Flamini over Arteta must be watching something else entirely.

[Munchies]

Fucking Mourinho the fucking stupid prick .

United have got a MASSIVE lift now with Mata. RVC is back, and Rooney is comitting his future to the club. They have a strong chance for top 4.

Right when they were about to be dead and buried, this fucking stupid prick offers them a lifeline.

Cunt !

[selassie]

One bad game (Arteta's first after an injury lay-off) at a tough opponent away from home in which most of the team was rubbish is vindication for years of Song's meandering lethargy and brainfarts? I don't think he's a bad player. He's almost like David Luiz in that any position you play him in, he just doesn't quite fit. An in-between player, if such a thing exists.

I don't think Flamini is good enough to be a regular either. He's basically a slightly better version of Scott Parker. Just because he's the only one who shows a bit of physicality, he seems to have been turned into a mythical figure who has transformed the team. Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all.

Arteta isn't perfect. Ideally, we'd have someone with Arteta's calmness in the centre, but with more mobility and athleticism. But our results and performances with Arteta in the side over the last three seasons have been much better than when he's been missing. It's not one of those factual anomalies you can twist, it bears out if you watch our games.

People still advocating Flamini over Arteta must be watching something else entirely.

This.

I like Flams tenacity but he can be a little too reckless at times. He has started to struggle lately too IMHO, he isn't the solution and neither is Arteta. That position needs upgrading this summer and with real quality IMHO.

[Blink 1nce Quince 2wice]

One bad game (Arteta's first after an injury lay-off) at a tough opponent away from home in which most of the team was rubbish is vindication for years of Song's meandering lethargy and brainfarts? I don't think he's a bad player. He's almost like David Luiz in that any position you play him in, he just doesn't quite fit. An in-between player, if such a thing exists.

I don't think Flamini is good enough to be a regular either. He's basically a slightly better version of Scott Parker. Just because he's the only one who shows a bit of physicality, he seems to have been turned into a mythical figure who has transformed the team. Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all.

Arteta isn't perfect. Ideally, we'd have someone with Arteta's calmness in the centre, but with more mobility and athleticism. But our results and performances with Arteta in the side over the last three seasons have been much better than when he's been missing. It's not one of those factual anomalies you can twist, it bears out if you watch our games.

People still advocating Flamini over Arteta must be watching something else entirely.

Pretty much agree with every word..... A lot of which I often want to say but can't be bothered to!

I don't think Wenger saying he is the technical leader in the group that he was being overly kind to him, though I accept his days are numbered.

[Niall_Quinn]

Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all, for me Flamini is a mythical figure who has transformed the team.

[Gooner23]

Or we're cashing in on Merts.

Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk

We're unveiling Sanogo again..

[Marc Overmars]

Arteta and Flamini should never be on the pitch together unless;

-Injuries mean we have no choice.
-We need to "do a job" like protect a lead and see out a game.

Flamini is an extremely limited player, if you stick him infront of the back 4 for protection he can be useful. However Arteta is far more disciplined and when they're on the pitch together Flamini loses his worth and his obvious limitations are exposed. I don't have a problem with one or the other starting because both perform a niche role, we just don't need both of them to do it.

[Dein-machine]

Arteta and Flamini should never be on the pitch together unless;

-Injuries mean we have no choice.
-We need to "do a job" like protect a lead and see out a game.

Flamini is an extremely limited player, if you stick him infront of the back 4 for protection he can be useful. However Arteta is far more disciplined and when they're on the pitch together Flamini loses his worth and his obvious limitations are exposed. I don't have a problem with one or the other starting because both perform a niche role, we just don't need both of them to do it.

Not even to see out a lead - with them both we sit too deep & bring on waves of opposition attacks. If the ball is in the other half, they can't score - you protect a lead by having quality midfileders & forwards who are able to keep & pass the ball in the opponents half.

[saintnickle]

One bad game (Arteta's first after an injury lay-off) at a tough opponent away from home in which most of the team was rubbish is vindication for years of Song's meandering lethargy and brainfarts? I don't think he's a bad player. He's almost like David Luiz in that any position you play him in, he just doesn't quite fit. An in-between player, if such a thing exists.

I don't think Flamini is good enough to be a regular either. He's basically a slightly better version of Scott Parker. Just because he's the only one who shows a bit of physicality, he seems to have been turned into a mythical figure who has transformed the team. Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all.

Arteta isn't perfect. Ideally, we'd have someone with Arteta's calmness in the centre, but with more mobility and athleticism. But our results and performances with Arteta in the side over the last three seasons have been much better than when he's been missing. It's not one of those factual anomalies you can twist, it bears out if you watch our games.

People still advocating Flamini over Arteta must be watching something else entirely.


Flamini isnt in the same league as Song.One we got on a free transfer the other we sold to Barcelona for £20 million.

[AFC Leveller]

The Barcodes have bid for Lyon's Grenier. Telented player.

[Ollie the Optimist]

Fucking Mourinho the fucking stupid prick .

United have got a MASSIVE lift now with Mata. RVC is back, and Rooney is comitting his future to the club. They have a strong chance for top 4.

Right when they were about to be dead and buried, this fucking stupid prick offers them a lifeline.

Cunt !

how dare you question Mourinho. he knows exactly what he is doing and is a genius for it


apparently

[Munchies]

Newcastle have bid for Grenier, bbc sport

If we don't get Draxler, I can see Wenger perhaps making a move for him

---
‏@JWTelegraph

Arsenal in contact with Schalke over Draxler but feeling at #afc is almost £40m should get you a finished product. Ozil was seen as that

---

I'd agree, but if you really think he's a star player, then you have to make a choice. Leave it to the summer, and you'll invite competition from other teams.

[Marc Overmars]

Liverpool are after Konoplyanka.

He's looked really good on the few occasions I've seen him.

[Globalgunner]

how dare you question Mourinho. he knows exactly what he is doing and is a genius for it


apparently

In all honestly i think the slimy Jackass is buttering himself up for a chance at managing United in the near future. He sold them Mata because he knew it would help their cause and his too. He will be out at Chelsea within 2 years with no where else to really excite him. Smarmy eye poker

[Ralpheroo72]

http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11670/9139706/transfer-news-arsenal-in-talks-over-schalke-midfielder-julian-draxler

[AFC Leveller]

Whil ewe're in Schalke, dont do we bid for Huntelaar? proven goal scorer, good age, experienced in Europe and has the WC as motivation.

[AKBapologist]

Luke Shaw? Next Bale?
Cheeky £25mill bid?

[Herbert_Chapman's_Zombie]

why are we trying to low ball schalke when we clearly have the money to meet their minimum release fee?

Schalke are not Arsenal we are not going to twist their arms into releasing their top players on the cheap

[AFC Leveller]

Luke Shaw was the best player on the pitch yesterday. At first i thought Gnabry was giving him too much space but he still managed to whip in some delightfull balls.

[Munchies]

He cost them their 2nd goal .

Also:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A2o8wuxZCOE
:bow: :lol:

[Edinburgh Gooner]

Flamini will be suspended for 4 matches according to the daily fail.

[Marc Overmars]

Luke Shaw was the best player on the pitch yesterday. At first i thought Gnabry was giving him too much space but he still managed to whip in some delightfull balls.

This lad is quality IMO. If we weren't well stocked at LB already I'd say we should go all out for him. He's the sort of player who will hold down his position for club and country for the next 10 years. Well worth the investment and it's a shame he'll probably fuck off to Chelsea at some point.

[Marc Overmars]

Flamini will be suspended for 4 matches according to the daily fail.

Arteta seems to be made of toast now so if he picks up any knocks we're fucked.

[AKBapologist]

Luke shaws better than left back tbh, put him on the wing, and lets see what he can do.

[Edinburgh Gooner]

Also seeing reports that we will sign draxler and loan him back to Schalke for the rest of the season.

[GP]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BfJq7nfIMAA8Dcs.jpg

[selassie]

why are we trying to low ball schalke when we clearly have the money to meet their minimum release fee?

Schalke are not Arsenal we are not going to twist their arms into releasing their top players on the cheap

We're only 7 million apart in the valuation, I reckon we'll get it done. Probably meet halfway or it will be add-ons.

Don't get me wrong Draxler is a major talent but 40million is too much for him, we paid that for Ozil, Mata just went to Utd for 37mill and he's still quite young and very established in PL, CL & International.

[Niall_Quinn]

why are we trying to low ball schalke when we clearly have the money to meet their minimum release fee?

Schalke are not Arsenal we are not going to twist their arms into releasing their top players on the cheap

Doubt we are trying to lowball because Schalke hold all the cards in that respect and can tie the player down until the summer for an even bigger fee then. I would think we are trying to structure the payments, some now, more based on results etc. It wouldn't really be a proper negotiation if we weren't trying to represent our club to the best advantage. If we're serious about this though, we need to get him now. Some cunt like Maureen will come in and splash cash during the summer otherwise. It's now or not at all.

[milla]

Doubt we are trying to lowball because Schalke hold all the cards in that respect and can tie the player down until the summer for an even bigger fee then. I would think we are trying to structure the payments, some now, more based on results etc. It wouldn't really be a proper negotiation if we weren't trying to represent our club to the best advantage. If we're serious about this though, we need to get him now. Some cunt like Maureen will come in and splash cash during the summer otherwise. It's now or not at all.

Change my mind, I want Reus not Draxler :coffee:

[JonasTC]

I would love Draxler here, but is he really what we need? Unless Wenger puts him into the striker role right away. Anyway i still think he will be world class. But what we REALLY need is a strong dmc with african roots who can play ball aswell, we should sign Diamé, he has like a 3m buy-out clause or smth.

[I am invisible]

Doubt we are trying to lowball because Schalke hold all the cards in that respect and can tie the player down until the summer for an even bigger fee then. I would think we are trying to structure the payments, some now, more based on results etc. It wouldn't really be a proper negotiation if we weren't trying to represent our club to the best advantage. If we're serious about this though, we need to get him now. Some cunt like Maureen will come in and splash cash during the summer otherwise. It's now or not at all.

Sounds the most likely scenario to me. Can't see Shalke budging too far from their buyout figure (and why should they? The player's under contract, and they don't want to lose him, so why should they be reasonable?), so I imagine we're trying to break that €40m figure down into instalments and add-ons?

If any of this is real, that is.

[Power n Glory]

Arteta seems to be made of toast now so if he picks up any knocks we're fucked.

Another reason why we shouldn't start both of them. Just play Cazorla and Ozil with one of them in the middle. Pod can start on the left!

[I am invisible]

I would love Draxler here, but is he really what we need? Unless Wenger puts him into the striker role right away. Anyway i still think he will be world class. But what we REALLY need is a strong dmc with african roots who can play ball aswell, we should sign Diamé, he has like a 3m buy-out clause or smth.

I'd keep a close eye on the management / chairmen situation at Southampton, and maybe have another look at Wanyama in the summer? Thought he was looking good before he got injured...

[Munchies]

The perfect player we need is Pogba

Strong, explosive, and black.

[I am invisible]

We're only 7 million apart in the valuation, I reckon we'll get it done. Probably meet halfway or it will be add-ons.

Don't get me wrong Draxler is a major talent but 40million is too much for him, we paid that for Ozil, Mata just went to Utd for 37mill and he's still quite young and very established in PL, CL & International.
Agreed, but this is very much an argument from our POV - from Shalke's, it's going to me more about what they see as adequate compensation for having their plans disrupted mid-season, and not entirely about an accurate valuation of the player.

I wonder how much the Puma deal will play a part in our thinking here? At just 20 years old, Draxler could shift a lot of shirts for us for a lot of years, if he's gonna be as good as everyone thinks/hopes. Again, there might me more to consider here than just his current value as a player?

[I am invisible]

Pogba would be great too.

What about that other German lad, Bender? Anyone been following him since the summer? Would he fit the bill?

[Munchies]

Hmm, I've not seen too much of him, but Pogba would be ideal really.

Arteta/Flamini are the basic of the basic CDMs (tbf Arteta isn't a CDM though) , ie they do the job.

Pogba does the job and a whole lot more, good with the ball, good passing, shooting, dribbling etc

If we're serious about improving the squad, we should get someone like Pogba in

[I am invisible]

I love talking about players knowing we can actually afford them now...

[Munchies]

I love talking about players knowing we can actually afford them now...

We could before aswell tbf

Chances of actually spending it though still remain to be seen. We supposedly had £70m last summer, spent £32m net. Could have brought in a top striker and we'd have walked the title.

[Munchies]

That Norweigan reporter has just said that Holtby is in Germany, presumably signing for Shalke

https://twitter.com/JanAageFjortoft/status/428541319070625792

Surely it won't happen again ? :lol:

[JonasTC]

I'd keep a close eye on the management / chairmen situation at Southampton, and maybe have another look at Wanyama in the summer? Thought he was looking good before he got injured...

Yep, he's a beast. Had an amazing game when Celtic won over Barca, scored and defended the midfield like he was 3 men. Wouldnt mind him here.

But as others are saying, Pogba would be ideal. He will be as good as Yaya Toure (if he isnt already), but seems to have more discipline when being played as the holding midfielder. Juventus have already said they will never be able to offer him more than smth like 70k/week, so they know the richer clubs will get him one day. We should call them up, offer 40m and offer him 80k+/week. I think he would love to come here and help us win something and rub it in ManU's face for not playing him :D

[Grebbo]

We have zero chance of signing Pogba. We had the chance to buy him for peanuts but he snubbed us for Man U, we then had another chance to buy him for peanuts but he joined Juve. No way will we spunk £30m+ on a player who we had two chances to sign for peanuts.

[JonasTC]

We have zero chance of signing Pogba. We had the chance to buy him for peanuts but he snubbed us for Man U, we then had another chance to buy him for peanuts but he joined Juve. No way will we spunk £30m+ on a player who we had two chances to sign for peanuts.

Dat logic :bow:

[Marc Overmars]

Yeah Pogba is great, one of the top all round CM's in the game at the moment.

[AFC Leveller]

Pogba is the best young CM out there and everyone in Europe is after him so i doubt we'd get him.

This window is a real opportunity for us to strengthen and go for the title properly, sign drax, Vucininc/Berbatov and we should be good to go.

[I am invisible]

We could before aswell tbf

Chances of actually spending it though still remain to be seen. We supposedly had £70m last summer, spent £32m net. Could have brought in a top striker and we'd have walked the title.
Yeah, I know what you mean but I can understand why we kept things cautious until all these new deals were officially signed and set in stone - there's a big difference between spending that kind of money and knowing it will be back in the bank at the start of every season, and spending that kind of money knowing it's all you have left. IMO these new deals we've signed are as much about the sense of freedom it gives us to spend as they are about the increased numbers...

[Munchies]

Yeah, I know what you mean but I can understand why we kept things cautious until all these new deals were officially signed and set in stone - there's a big difference between spending that kind of money and knowing it will be back in the bank at the start of every season, and spending that kind of money knowing it's all you have left. IMO these new deals we've signed are as much about the sense of freedom it gives us to spend as they are about the increased numbers...

Yeah, everything is certainly on the up now :good:

We're strongly linked with Matuidi right now (PSG). He's available on a free in the summer, so PSG want to sell now
www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2014/01/29/4579541/arsenal-move-for-matuidi-to-solve-midfield-crisis

---
Manchester City in their annual report show an incredible £610m spent on transfer fees since 2008 when Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi took over.
https://twitter.com/david_conn/status/428560941534289920

Cost £210m more than our stadium :faint: . What a joke.

[Power n Glory]

One bad game (Arteta's first after an injury lay-off) at a tough opponent away from home in which most of the team was rubbish is vindication for years of Song's meandering lethargy and brainfarts? I don't think he's a bad player. He's almost like David Luiz in that any position you play him in, he just doesn't quite fit. An in-between player, if such a thing exists.

I don't think Flamini is good enough to be a regular either. He's basically a slightly better version of Scott Parker. Just because he's the only one who shows a bit of physicality, he seems to have been turned into a mythical figure who has transformed the team. Even though he's not started that regularly or been crucial to our results at all.

Arteta isn't perfect. Ideally, we'd have someone with Arteta's calmness in the centre, but with more mobility and athleticism. But our results and performances with Arteta in the side over the last three seasons have been much better than when he's been missing. It's not one of those factual anomalies you can twist, it bears out if you watch our games.

People still advocating Flamini over Arteta must be watching something else entirely.

I think you’ve been a tad bit harsh on Song in your initial post. Song played at time where our defensive philosophy was keep the ball, keep a highline and out score our opponent. They score 1, we score 2. Our CB pairings were terrible and they really needed protecting because they couldn’t defend for toffee. I seriously doubt he’d struggle to win a place from Flamini and Arteta. I like Flam but his passing can be poor, he’s not great when it comes to ball distribution and I wouldn’t say he’s miles ahead in the discipline and intelligence department.

Arteta is the brains of the duo but he lacks the physicality and engine. Just look at the second goal and he struggles to cover ground. His distribution is better than Flamini’s but he struggles to play on the pivot because he’s slow and he’s not that great technically when the ball is played into his feet. He can’t turn away from his man to pass it off smoothly and he isn’t big enough to ride the challenge.

Song had good days and bad but he was a very dominant player when on his game. If he could have learned the positional discipline we’ve seen with Arteta and the leadership/organisation qualities of Flamini, he’d have been great. But his time has come and gone. We should be looking for such a player in the summer because Flamini and Arteta are getting old. Would be good to see Coquelin get some games there. I remember seeing him at the Emirates for one game where he looked very tidy. He’d need a run during the summer preseason to see if he’s learned new tricks from his loan spell.

[Gooner23]

:good:
Yeah, everything is certainly on the up now :good:

We're strongly linked with Matuidi right now (PSG). He's available on a free in the summer, so PSG want to sell now
www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2892/transfer-zone/2014/01/29/4579541/arsenal-move-for-matuidi-to-solve-midfield-crisis

---
Manchester City in their annual report show an incredible £610m spent on transfer fees since 2008 when Sheikh Mansour of Abu Dhabi took over.
https://twitter.com/david_conn/status/428560941534289920

Cost £210m more than our stadium :faint: . What a joke.

Fortunately they've managed to offset that by selling their stadium rights to themselves. FFP

[GP]

It's absolutely disgusting and shouldn't be allowed.

[Munchies]

Wayne Rooney has signed a new contract with Manchester United worth £300,000 per week. [sky]

[Niall_Quinn]

Wayne Rooney has signed a new contract with Manchester United worth £300,000 per week. [sky]

LOL, he's stabbed them deep in the back again. Every time the club has issues he takes advantage to squeeze more money. A complete mercenary who had no qualms about joining city until the fans threatened to punch his lights out.

[Munchies]

LOL, he's stabbed them deep in the back again. Every time the club has issues he takes advantage to squeeze more money. A complete mercenary who had no qualms about joining city until the fans threatened to punch his lights out.

:lol:

Pretty much.

[Marc Overmars]

Cabaye completes his move to PSG.

Barcodes. :lol:

[Özim]

It's absolutely disgusting and shouldn't be allowed.

[Bumble]

LOL, he's stabbed them deep in the back again. Every time the club has issues he takes advantage to squeeze more money. A complete mercenary who had no qualms about joining city until the fans threatened to punch his lights out.
or brilliantly advised to maximise his earning potential in a short career.

in the real jobs world though, if any of us threatened to leave. we would be out the exit door quicker than you can say rooney shags grannies.

[Bumble]

Cabaye completes his move to PSG.

Barcodes. :lol:
good deal tripling there investment in him. 20m is alot of money for a good player but wouldnt be the sort to turn us into champions.

[Niall_Quinn]

or brilliantly advised to maximise his earning potential in a short career.

No doubt about that. Laugh is most of the utd fans love him, even though such ridiculous wages will mean their transfer activity will surely be dented.