Mikel Arteta will be aiming for glory this season as Arsenal lead the Premier League table and look to bolster their title chances with strategic signings in the January transfer window. The Spaniard has been at the helm since 2019, with his primary goal to secure the league title eluding him so far. Under his leadership, the Gunners have finished runners-up for three consecutive seasons but are leading the charge this time around.
Arteta is hopeful that his January signings will guide the North London club to their first Premier League title since 2004. To predict who the manager will target, Mirror Football examines his first five signings as Arsenal manager, which could hint at his plans for this month.
Pablo Mari was the first signing of the Arteta era, joining on loan in January 2020. Despite limited appearances, his versatility as a left-footed centre-half demonstrated what Arteta aimed for. Arteta said: 'For me, he is very important, he balances what I want to do from the back line.' Mari made 22 outings before departing for Monza in 2023.
Next came full-back Cedric, also on loan in January 2020. He could operate at right-back, left-back, and right midfield, providing versatility. Arteta noted: 'He's a player who's got a big experience... I really like what he can bring.' Cedric made 64 appearances, often covering multiple positions.
Alex Runarsson, a goalkeeper signed shortly after, had only six outings but illustrated Arteta's emphasis on squad depth and competition. Willian joined from Chelsea in summer 2020 as a free agent, but after 37 appearances with one goal and seven assists, he failed to meet expectations. Arteta initially said: 'I believe he's a player that can really make a difference for us.'
