It has been a very busy transfer market for Arsenal as against what many predicted would be void with activities, mainly due to the fact that Arsenal, for the first time in a quarter of a century will not be featuring in Europe in the coming season.
Two arrivals in Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi-Lokonga from Benfica and Anderlecht respectively, signified an intent by the Arsenal management to foster the Mikel Arteta project.
The highlights have, however, been the contract renewals for their youngsters, Kieran Tierney and most recently, Emile Smith Rowe, both signing new long-term contracts, following Bukayo Saka, who had also already done same almost exactly a year ago.
The new deal comes with a change in shirt number for Smith Rowe. The England youngster will now don the number 10 jersey last worn by Mesut Ozil, previously worn by the likes of Paul Merson, Dennis Bergkamp and Robin van Persie and, for the sake of mention, William Gallas. He wore 32 on his shirt last season.
Beyond the contract, which from an Arsenal perspective is a statement of intent and a deviation from yesteryears, the shirt number definitely comes with big responsibilities for the Croydon-born player.
At just 20 years, it would be too much to ask for a prime Mesut Ozil of him, nonetheless, as said in his interviews after signing the contract, he is aware of the pressure and expectations that come with the number and he is buzzing to go for it.
His talent is undoubted and this new responsibility shows the trust that the Arsenal board has in him. It was no coincidence that his introduction to the first team from the Christmas period saw Arsenal record the third highest points thereon, meaning the Gunners could have finished third on the log had the season began in December.
The Chelsea game was arguably his breakthrough into the team and, while everyone expects him to grow at per with the level of talent he has showcased, it is also important to note that he has barely six months of premier league experience under his belt and this will be crucial going forward.
It was not unexpected that Arsenal vehemently turned down two offers from Aston Villa for the youngster.
If there is one thing that this current Arsenal management has learnt from preceding administrations, it is to never let great talents like Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, Kieran Tierney and Emile Smith Rowe enter the final year of their contracts before opening talks of an extension.
Just like Emile cannot wait to go out on the pitch donning his new number, he should be rest assured that the fans are more impatient to see him out there. He needs to keep his head straight, grow into himself and take every game as it comes.
Wishing ESR all the best this new phase.
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