Former Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos has given his thoughts on Arsenal’s newest #14, Gyokeres and whether or not he has what it takes to emulate the performance of his former teammate Henry. In an exclusive interview with BOYLE Sports.
Senderos also expressed his confidence in Arsenal’s completed transfer business and tipped them to get their Premier League campaign off to a winning start, predicting a 2-1 win over Manchester United.
The retired Swiss international sees a four-horse race for the title with the Gunners finally going all the way this year under Mikel Arteta, but he doesn’t expect United, Aston Villa or Newcastle United to compete for the top four.
Arsenal
The Next #14 Gyokeres
I didn’t see if there was any big deal, to be honest. I didn’t hear about it if there was. For me, it’s a nice wink to the club’s history - it shows the next players have the personality and the will to emulate what happened in the past. When we moved to the Emirates, they re-gave some of the big numbers that had been retired, and I got No.6.
At Arsenal, that’s a very big number - you need broad shoulders to wear it, and I hope I didn’t give it a bad image. I tried my best, and hopefully Gyokeres do the same with the 14. I didn’t speak to Tony Adams. I was given the shirt - I didn’t choose. Arsene Wenger decided they needed to redistribute those numbers, and they gave me the No.6.
Arsenal Are Done
I think Arsenal are pretty much done. I’m not sure they’ll keep recruiting unless I’m missing something, but I think they’ve done their job well. I’m excited to see this team start. Man United away is the first match, and I’m really looking forward to it.
Arsenal v Man United?
Hopefully, an away win for Arsenal - 2-1. I think they’ve recruited well and have more power coming off the bench.
In the past, players like Bukayo Saka were playing so many games without much rest, which probably contributed to some injuries. Now they’ve got players who can come in without the threat level dropping too much, so they’ve added depth, which is a great sign.
Arsenal @
Premier League
Season Predictions
I think Arsenal will win it, with Liverpool, Manchester City, and Chelsea making up the top four. I think all four of them will be in the title race this season. Fifth will be Spurs.
For Chelsea, the stability of the manager is very important. There’s been a lot of movement with players, but having that clear direction is key. The youth also helps - they’re not overthinking situations, which can be a positive.
For Spurs, I like the manager. He’s done a great job at Brentford, and he’s got a good squad. I also think they’ll still be active in the transfer window.
Super Cup
Super Cup Call
I think PSG will win. They’re a well-rounded team with a lot of power, speed, and quality. Last season, even in the final, they were dominant. They’ve got experience at that level, and I’ve really enjoyed watching them play - I think they’ll have too much for Spurs at this stage of the season.
Weekend Fixtures
Weekend Premier League Predictions:
Chelsea v Crystal Palace
Chelsea to win 3-1. They’ve had a great summer, added quality across the pitch, and I think they’ll control the game. Palace can be dangerous, but Chelsea’s squad depth will show.
Liverpool v Bournemouth
Liverpool to win 3-0. Strong squad, exciting signings, and an opening game at Anfield - the atmosphere will be incredible. I expect them to be sharp from the start.
Aston Villa v Newcastle
2-2 draw. Both are exciting sides who like to attack, and I think they’ll both be in European places again. There’s still business to be done in both squads, so they’re not quite the finished article yet.
Sunderland v West Ham
Sunderland to win 2-1. First Premier League game back at the Stadium of Light - the atmosphere will be electric. The fans will push them on, and that can make the difference. West Ham travel well, but I think home advantage wins here.
Spurs v Burnley
Spurs to win 2-1. Burnley will have a plan, but the step up from the Championship to the Premier League is big. Spurs’ quality in the final third should edge it, especially at home.
Wolves v Manchester City
City to win 2-0. Rodri is such an important player for them - you can see the difference when he’s not there, but even without him, they’ve got so much quality and control in games. I think they’ll be solid and efficient.
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