Mirror
Robin van Persie’s controversial move to Manchester United in 2012 proved Arsenal were on the decline – could a similar switch in the opposite direction happen this summer?
This summer marks the 10th anniversary of Robin van Persie’s controversial move from Arsenal to rivals Manchester United, leaving Arsene Wenger for Sir Alex Ferguson.
The Dutchman was the Gunners’ talisman at the time – scoring 37 goals the previous
season – but had just a year left on his contract and was desperate to win the Premier League.
Arsenal were forced to flog Van Persie to the Red Devils – and now they should avenge the sale this summer by signing Marcus Rashford.
Many Gunners fans will disagree, which is understandable. Rashford has only scored four Premier League goals this season and looks a shadow of his former self.
But the 24-year-old remains one of the finest English talents in the Premier League. In the previous two campaigns, he scored a combined total of 43 goals in all competitions.
There’s no doubting Rashford’s attributes. The Mancunian is quick, tall, strong, technically gifted and – when at his best – oozes confidence.
Arsenal are also in a position where they must sign a new striker this summer, as Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are both out of contract in June.
And Rashford is also set to enter the final year of his contract this summer, although United do have the option to extend his existing deal by 12 months. Even if they do trigger that clause, a reasonably-priced sale may suit all parties considering his lack of form.
Reports earlier this month suggested Rashford wants to leave United. And what better place to go than Arsenal? They’re the so-called “Big Six” team nurturing English talent right now – including Aaron Ramsdale, Emile Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka.
Lets also not forget United’s poor season. The Red Devils are currently fifth in the Premier League, one point behind Arsenal in fourth having played three games more.
United are without a permanent manager and lacking a clear philosophy on the pitch, with dressing-room leaks more frequent than points.
Arsenal, meanwhile, appear to have a clear strategy under manager Mikel Arteta. They’re slowly building a squad that can compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
Champions League qualification would be another big pull for Rashford. If the Gunners can beat United, West Ham and Tottenham to fourth – which they look like doing at the moment – a lot of players will view them as London’s most desirable club this summer.
That honour has been…
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