Rio Ferdinand has backed Arsenal’s summer transfer business, insisting the Premier League champions are stronger despite supporters’ concerns over their limited late-window activity.
The former Manchester United defender believes the additions of Christos Tzolis, Bruno Guimarães and Ezri Konsa have addressed important areas of Mikel Arteta’s squad, with particular praise reserved for the Greek winger.
Arsenal strengthened across defence, midfield and attack during the summer but did not add another senior forward before the transfer window closed on Tuesday, September 1. That has left some fans questioning whether the squad has enough depth in the final third.
Rio Ferdinand backs Arsenal transfer window
Ferdinand nevertheless delivered a positive assessment in a video on his YouTube channel, describing Arsenal as a more complete side after their recruitment.
“I think they’ve strengthened. They look stronger,” he said.
Konsa was highlighted as a dependable addition at centre-back, particularly with Arsenal expected to compete on several fronts this season.
“You got Ezri Konsa, top player, top centre half, reliable, will play many games and will never let him down I don’t think,” Ferdinand said.
He also viewed Guimarães as a natural fit for Arteta’s midfield, believing the Brazil international brings qualities Arsenal needed.
“Bruno Guimaraes is a fantastic midfielder who I think is a great signing for them in terms of the mix that they needed, the type of player they needed,” he added. “I think Bruno is a perfect signing for them.”
Ferdinand argued that Arsenal did not need to make a large number of additions, praising what he saw as a targeted approach rather than a rushed recruitment drive.
“They didn’t have to go crazy in terms of loads and loads of players,” he said. “I think they’ve been really efficient in the way that they’ve gone and bought players in this window.”
Christos Tzolis tipped to become a bargain
Tzolis, who joined Arsenal from Club Brugge, has made an encouraging early impression and Ferdinand believes the winger could emerge as one of the most astute signings of the campaign.
“Tzolis is going to be a winger I think we’re going to have to watch out for this year,” Ferdinand said.
“I think he’s going to do some good stuff and I think he’s going to look like a snip and maybe could end up being one of the buys of the season. Definitely one of the bargains of the season.”
Arsenal’s supporters may have wanted further attacking reinforcements, but the club have retained the core of the side that won the Premier League title and reached two domestic cup finals last season.
Greater availability for Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard could also provide a significant boost after both players missed substantial periods through injury, while younger members of the squad are expected to take on greater responsibility.
