This has already been an overwhelmingly positive season for Arsenal as they prepare to return to Premier League action on Boxing Day.
The Gunners are currently five points clear at the top of the table ahead of their home game with London rivals West Ham United after taking maximum points from 12 of their first 14 league games so far. Indeed, claiming a win against the Hammers would ensure Mikel Arteta’s men will preserve their place at the summit as we head into the new year.
But the first month of 2023 will also bring a raft of speculation as the January transfer window opens for business. Arteta’s main focus may well revolve around adding further competition at the top end of the pitch, with Eddie Nketiah set to be handed a key role after Gabriel Jesus underwent an operation on an injury suffered on international duty with Brazil.
But what other business could take place? LondonWorld has called on the assistance of Football Manager 2023 to predicts what moves could take place at the Emirates Stadium.
1. GK: Aaron Ramsdale
Undoubtably the Gunners number one in real life, the England stopper has also impressed in this simulated season on Football Manager, keeping 12 clean sheets so far. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
2. RB: Takehiro Tomiyasu
The Japan international has been brought in at right-back as the virtual Arteta makes an intriguing switch in his defence. | ANP/AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
3. LB: Kieran Tierney
Back to fitness and back in form, the Scottish star has been a model of consistency in the Gunners side. Photo: David Price
4. CB: William Saliba
The young Frenchman’s progress in real life is very much mirrored in the game as he has played each and every minute of their season so far. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images