Samir Nasri: Will Arsene Wenger's Petit Prince Stay at Arsenal Beyond 2011?

Regardless of how Arsenal's English Premier League bid concludes, 2010/2011 will forever be looked upon by the Gunners faithful as a disappointing season in which Arsene Wenger's young side, which had been nurtured and developed for more than half a decade, failed to grasp their potential and opportunity.

Nonetheless, there have been many high points that have aroused pleasure and excitement to not only Arsenal fans but world football. Teenage sensation Jack Wilshere has become one of the most consistent and sharpest midfielders in the EPL and possibly Europe. The English midfielder, who had progressed impressively through the Arsenal academy from a young age, has thrived after being gifted an opportunity by Wenger.

The English international has not only cemented his place in the Arsenal midfield with 41 appearances and two goals in all competitions for the North London giants, but Wilshere has also become an established member of the England National Team with England manager Fabio Capello holding the young gun in the highest regard.

The return of Johan Djourou from a severe knee injury that restricted the Swiss defender to contribute just one appearance last season, came on the final day of the EPL. Djourou became the heart of the Arsenal defender with some assured performances throughout December, January and February and was fast becoming one of the strongest defenders in England.

Furthermore, the goalkeeping conundrum came to an almighty halt after years of dispute and errors. Lukasz Fabianski matured greatly in the first half of the season and began to convey the form and composure Wenger promised the Polish shot-stopper would one day show. Unfortunately, a serious shoulder injury terminated Fabianski's season in January.

However, boom youngster Wojciech Szczesny was thrown into the fray and the 20-year-old refused to disappoint with some fantastic performances. The Polish international showed why Wenger and the Arsenal academy touted him to become a world-renowned keeper.

But arguably, the brightest point was the new found consistency and dominance of French playmaker Samir Nasri.

Since arriving at the Emirates in 2008 from French giants Marseille for £12 million, it was evident Nasri was a promising prospect. A constant force in the French Ligue, there were concerns whether the French international could cut it in world football's toughest league.

In his first two seasons, the 23-year-old was strong for the Gunners with some superb performances; however, consistency was a concern as Nasri struggled to form a pattern of impressive performances, often becoming too anonymous in games.

This season has been a revelation for the Petit Prince, who responded emphatically to be omitted from the France World Cup squad. The dynamo has made 39 appearances and scored 14 goals, equal top scorer for the Gunners with Robin van Persie.

Nasri has thrived on the wing and occasionally in the centre with his speed, movement and balance—a constant threat to Premier League defences.

With captain Cesc Fabregas, sharpshooters Robin van Persie, Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner all struggling with injuries during various periods of the season, and the likes of Andrei Arshavin, Denilson and Abou Diaby all suffering lapses in form, Nasri's consistency and form has ensured that the flowing Arsenal attack has remained intact all season.

However, it could be short-lived for Arsenal as the ongoing contract debates, which have been present yet overlooked for most of the season, begin to materialize. Wenger is eager to sign Nasri for a large amount of time but, as expected, the former Marseille midfielder's efforts have not gone unnoticed with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Juventus—only a few of the big name clubs eager to secure the star's services.

Nasri's agent Alain Migliaccio has not denied reports his dynamic midfielder will depart the Emirates but is confident that the Frenchman will remain at Arsenal.

The focus, of course, for Samir Nasri is to finish the season strongly, but if the likelihood of no silverware becomes a reality, then who knows what will occur.