Paul Merson calls for Unai Emery to ‘completely change’ Arsenal’s defence this summer

Paul Merson calls for Unai Emery to ‘completely change’ Arsenal’s defence this summer

Arsenal legend Paul Merson has called for newly appointed manager Unai Emery to completely change the Gunners defence this summer.

Emery was named as Arsene Wenger’s successor in North London earlier this week, signing a three-year deal with the club after leaving Ligue 1 champions PSG.


Rumours are already flying as to who the Spaniard will recruit this summer to help Arsenal improve on a disappointing sixth placed finish last season – with a number of Europe’s biggest names linked with moves to The Emirates.

Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri and Sevilla’s Steven N’zonzi have both been rumoured to be top targets for Emery this summer, whilst AS Monaco’s Thomas Emery is also high on the transfer wish-list for the former Sevilla boss.

Merson however believes that only one thing needs fixing this summer at his former club – their defence.

“Defensively they need everything,” Merson said, “From a goalkeeper, as Petr Cech was great but isn’t now, centre-halves and a holding midfielder. The full-backs aren’t really good enough either so they’ve got a lot of work to do.

“Arsenal need to tighten up and become hard to beat which, based on what he did at Sevilla, Emery can do.”

Arsenal conceded 51 top flight goals last season – 13 more than any other top six team – however managed to score 74 times, the third best total in the division alongside Tottenham Hotspur.

And Merson believes if the Gunners can find the right balance next term, they will be in for a successful season.

“Emery knows the Spanish market well so I think he’ll be looking there, and to France, but I can’t see them bringing in any English players.

“The good thing is that they’ve made an appointment early so Emery has time to improve the squad and if they can get Ozil, Aubameyang and Lacazette playing well then they’re flying.”