The feeling around the football club is one to be pretty excited about heading into 2023-2024 season. I for one am proud of the achievement last season simply because I had lower expectations despite the signing of Gabriel Jesus. I think there were so much more intangibles that really give the team that belief to push for the title. Today, that is the immediate thought and expectation. It is quite astonishing how quickly the image of the club is now in that caliber with the likes of the top 8 European clubs.

Of course, there are still some question marks about the squad. Will Bukayo Saka have a good backup on the right? Can our defensive squad stay fit? Can Fabio Vieira, Emile Smith Rowe & Reiss Nelson go up a level as the "impacters" for the depth?

Overall, there is a lot to be excited about at Arsenal. The squad is young, hungry, and talented. And with a few more additions, Mikel Arteta has kept his word on about "raising the quality of the squad".

Here are some of the reasons to be excited about Arsenal's squad:

The front attack is stacked with talent. Gabriel Jesus will have a lot more to prove in goal-scoring finishes, and I think dynamism in Arsenal attack is what be used to describe that core front. Kai Havertz, I can't believe I'm saying his name will have an eye opening impact and versatility in the midfield unlocking defenses similar to Trossard's contribution in January.

The midfield is rock solid with Odegaard, Jorginho, Havertz & Rice and Thomas Partey - now likely set to say, there is so much expectation from this group. Albeit, tapered with the reality of time to form a strong chemistry. I'm really sad to see Granit Xhaka leave. But I don't think there could have been any better perfect time than now. More importantly, he has secured his status with the club and fans. A befitting ending for a great servant for the club. With Emile and Vieira in the squad, Arsenal's midfield looks very well-rounded.

Arsenal's defense is much more solid than it has in recent years. The defense for the last 2 seasons has been really exciting. From the return of Saliba, reliability of Ben White, intriguing prospect of Kiwior and now the addition of International player Jurrien Timber, I couldn't think of such group of players that give me this much assurance. And it is not "on-paper" because we have seen them play.

Of course, there are still some questions on Sambi, Pepe, Flo Balogun & Tierney. The Gaffer needs to figure all that and recruit good staff to replace Steve Round and co. All these stories really keeps things interesting and fresh to discuss. I wonder, are we going to be shocked by a few moves before the season starts? Well see.

In the meantime, let's enjoy the build up to '23-24 season!

COYG! Photo Credit: Stuart MacFarlane