There is something overwhelmingly positive about the start of a new football season. At the very core each fan nurtures a silent, unrelenting hope about their team’s chances, even if it is just a wish for improvements on mid/low-table standings in the previous seasons. For fans of the top teams, it brings forth a hope of glory and silverware, if not just a wish for being part of the race for victory at end of the season, of bragging rights over bitter rivals. I’m no different. But being an Arsenal fan, I also know what it’s like to have hopes dashed and beaten, of feeling the bitter pain of defeat and unfulfilled potential for 8 seasons. Then again, that’s the beauty of being a fan. You get to be with your team, experiencing all shades of the spectrum between soul-crushing losses and euphoric wins. You get to feel a part of a world-wide community all sharing a goal – their sheer, unwavering love for a team. I have no doubt that this coming season will have all those ingredients and more, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Here is a realistic view of what I think we can expect from the Gunners.
Arsenal have done some solid business in the summer so far, but most of it has been overshadowed by the drama that still hangs over North London like a stubborn English rain-cloud and refuses to go away. The news is just in that Robin Van Persie, Arsenal’s captain and talisman last season is headed to Manchester. But not to the club we all thought. This season onwards RVP will wear the red and white of bitter rivals Manchester United. As much as I hated the way he went about things (Yes, I’m referring to THAT statement), Arsenal were always going to possess more quality with him in the team and I’m very sad (and frankly extremely pissed off) about the turn of events. At least we have 24 million to invest in some much needed defensive back-up. On the same note, I would love for Arshavin to stay and rediscover his scintillating form at Euro 2008 and the first few months of his Arsenal career. He would be another massive asset.