As reported by The Sun, Dominik Szoboszlai has snubbed Arsenal in favour of RB Salzburg stay. The midfielder prefers to play in the UEFA Champions League next season with his current club, stating, “I have spoken with my family and my agent, and decided to stay with Salzburg. I would like to make this journey with the Champions League once again.”
Along with Arsenal, Chelsea, Napoli, PSG and Lazio have all shown interest in Szoboszlai. But, it seems he is destined to remain at Salzburg next season, which serves as a massive blow for Mikel Arteta.
Szoboszlai Could Have Answered Arsenal’s Prayers
Following the return of Dani Ceballos to Real Madrid, Arsenal are left relatively shallow in the midfield department, especially with Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira being linked with a move away from Emirates.
Dominik Szoboszlai, in that regard, would have been an ideal option for Arteta. The Hungarian international has the technical prowess that could have complemented the more robust nature of Granit Xhaka in the double-pivot of Arsenal’s 3-4-3.
Although Szoboszlai is a left-sided midfielder by trade, he would be an excellent fit in central midfield, providing the creative spark, while his ability to carry the ball would be useful against top teams.
Not to mention, the Videoton youth prodigy is quite productive for a playmaker, and at the age of 19, he has time on his side and could have become an asset for the Gunners in the long run.
What Are Arteta’s Other Options?
Having missed out on Szoboszlai, Arsenal’s main priority should be to re-sign Ceballos from Real Madrid. However, it remains to be seen whether or not the Spaniard would prefer to return to Emirates this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s other option in the creative midfield slot is the existing star Mesut Ozil. But as one would guess, the German hasn’t had a productive year and is yet to feature for Arsenal in the first-team since Project Restart. He has, in fact, been alienated from the starting lineup.
It doesn’t come as a surprise either given Ozil’s rapid downfall over the past couple of years. Unfortunately for the Gunners, they might have a hard time selling the playmaker as very few clubs would be able to afford his expensive wages unless the player himself settles for a pay cut.
Arteta could search the market for a Szoboszlai alternative as well, having been linked with a move for Thiago Alcantara. Even FC Barcelona outcast Ivan Rakitic could be an excellent solution in the club’s bid to find a new creative midfielder.
A Promoted Role For Emile Smith Rowe
Regardless of what happens, Arsenal’s failed pursuit of Szoboszlai, combined with the departure of Ceballos and the downfall of Ozil, should pave the way for Emile Smith Rowe to earn a more prominent role in the first-team next season.
The youngster, who is predominantly a number ten, has impressed the onlookers with his spark and creativity at Huddersfield Town last season. He could be a useful option for Arteta in the upcoming campaign, especially if we consider how much success youngsters have had under the Spaniard so far during his reign at Emirates.
Also considering Arsenal’s current financial state, Smith Rowe could actually be Arteta’s best bet as he looks to find a proper creative midfielder to boost his side’s chance creation next season.
