Frank Leboeuf has seen enough. The former Chelsea defender is convinced Arsenal are the team to beat in the Premier League next season, and he is not hedging his bets. After 22 years of waiting, the Gunners finally got their hands on the title under Mikel Arteta, and Leboeuf believes that hunger has not gone anywhere.
The north London club came within a whisker of a historic double, only to fall short against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final. That pain, according to Leboeuf, could fuel something even stronger. He is not worried about fitness concerns or the pressure of defending a crown. In his eyes, Arsenal already have the tools to outplay anyone on their day.
Speaking to ESPN, as relayed by Metro UK, Leboeuf did not mince words. “Arsenal have some assurances and they know that with the team they have right now they can be better than anybody else,” he said. “With Gabriel Magalhaes and Saliba in the lineup, they are formidable; they know they are stronger than any other team, and that is the reality. If I were an Arsenal supporter, I would not be concerned. Can they achieve a consecutive Premier League title? Yes, they are my favourites, but they must prove it.”
The Gunners have not been idle in the transfer market. Bruno Guimaraes has arrived from Newcastle in a £75 million deal, a statement signing that signals intent. Greek winger Christos Tzolis and free-agent goalkeeper Ilian Meslier have also been brought in to add depth. The pieces are in place. Now comes the hard part: proving Leboeuf right when the pressure is at its highest.
