Arsenal FC: 5 Bold Predictions for Arsenal's 2011/12 Season

If Arsene Wenger's side looks anything like this next year, then these predictions might not be too bold. That being said, the transfer window still has not opened and, furthermore, all talk of new arrivals is just speculation at the moment.

All those involved with Arsenal have high expectations going into each new season, and that is unlikely to change next season.

This past season magnified Arsenal's weaknesses. If Wenger doesn't rectify this by purchasing quality in the necessary positions, and if the Gunners falter down the stretch, his time at the Emirates may be up.

All is not lost however, as there were bright spots in the campaign. Most notably, the emergence of Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri and Johan Djourou (when he played).

These predictions are contingent upon some sort of change within the Gunners squad next season, and hopefully one or two of these do happen.

20-Plus Goals in All Competitions for Theo Walcott

When he was first brought on board comparisons were made to Thierry Henry, but Theo Walcott's statistics have not been great since joining Arsenal.

Last season he reached double figures for the first time in six seasons with the Gunners, and while it took some time, it is promising. Walcott shook of the injury troubles that were beginning to plaque him and provided some quality finishing throughout the season.

With the likes of Jack Wilshere, Samir Nasri, Robin van Persie and, possibly, Cesc Fabregas providing the service, Walcott should be finding the net often.

If rumors are true, and players like Gervinho are brought into the squad, then Walcott will faced increased pressure which will hopefully elevate his game.

If Walcott really wants to ensure his place for England's squad in Euro 2012, then it's necessary for him to build upon his personal success of last season.

Second in Goals Allowed

Last season, Arsenal conceded 43 goals in the Premiership.

Champions Manchester United let in 37, while both Manchester City and Chelsea allowed the least, 33.

All these teams finished above Arsenal and can credit their defenses for that.

While Arsenal was second in goals scored behind United, there is no doubting that if there defensive numbers were similar or better to the Red Devils, the title would have been theirs.

If, as Wenger admits, the Gunners defense cost them, reinforcements are needed.

Luckily Thomas Vermaelen should be back next season, and will provide a much needed boost.

If any newcomers arrive, and fit in as expected, there is no way that an accomplished manager such as Wenger will allow such weaknesses to expose his team again.

First or Second in the Premiership

This is not out of the ordinary in terms of expectations for the Arsenal organization.

As of late though, it is a stretch.

Arsenal has been consistently beaten out of the top two spots for the last few years, and the number of serious contenders is growing each year.

Manchester City showed that money can get you a trophy with its FA Cup victory, and they are likely to strengthen even more this summer to contend for Premiership and Champions League titles.

Liverpool is in the midst of one of their most important summers. After a resurgence in the league under manager Kenny Dalglish, and behind a fully fit Steven Gerrard, the Reds will mean business next year.

Chelsea, as always, have money to burn and still have a core of experienced and talented, albeit old, players.

Manchester United will want to retain their Premier League dominance and oust Barcelona from their European throne.

All these teams may respect Arsenal, but have no reason to fear them considering recent history. At this point, Arsenal are underdogs.

Changes within the squad can revitalize belief for the upcoming campaign. If they are able to maintain some of their past early season form for the majority of the 2011/12 season, there is no reason they cannot return to the spotlight.

FA Cup Champions

The last trophy Arsenal won was the FA Cup, and it would be fitting if it was one of the first trophies they regained.

Wenger made more of an effort to win the Carling Cup this past year, and while such a trophy may bring a sense of winning character to the squad, it will not be enough.

The Gunners struggled with the FA Cup this year, needing replays against two considerably weaker opponents.

Misuse of players, lack of confidence, and fatigue were all major factors in the downward spiral for Arsenal's season.

The FA Cup is an exciting tournament because of its unpredictable nature. Wenger will hope that the draws are in Arsenal's favor again. But this time he will have to make sure his team performs as expected to negate the need for replays.

Wenger is very fond of the FA Cup and would very much like to lift the trophy again. To do so he needs to rotate his players more often and, when necessary, bring out the big guns.

Champions League Finalists

Arsenal usually perform well in the Champions League. They rarely have trouble in the group stages and they generally make it to the quarterfinal stage of the competition.

Unfortunately, for the past two years they have had to cross paths with the mighty Barcelona. Both times they were second best, and in their 2006 trip to the final, they were thwarted by Barcelona in unlucky circumstances.

It is amazing that this is the one trophy that has still eluded Wenger. The plethora of talented players that have played under him have never been able to help him capture the trophy, though some have gone on to win with other teams.

The Champions League is similar to the FA Cup in that a little luck is needed. Were Arsenal to be placed against an opponent not named Barcelona in the last few years, their situation may be different.

For Arsenal to reach this stage however, they will need more than just luck. All the ingredients that have been missing the last few years need to be acquired. This includes more than just new players.

If Arsenal were to reach the final, and possibly even lift the trophy, it would come as a great surprise considering current events.

But as Arsenal fans have said in years past, In the Professor We Trust. At least for one more year.