Arsenal Midfielder Warns Gunners This is Make-or-Break Season

Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere believes 2012/13 could be a defining season for the north London side. The 21 year old England international wants the Gunners to take advantage of managerial changes and potential instability at their rivals to launch a major title challenge.

Premier League champions Manchester United, cross-town rivals Manchester City and Europa League champions Chelsea will all boast new faces in the dug-out, with David Moyes, Manuel Pellegrini and Jose Mourinho replacing Sir Alex Ferguson, Roberto Mancini and Rafael Benitez respectively.

"It's a big season ahead for us. A few of the other big teams have changed managers this season and we've got a manager who has been there a long time. He knows the league, so it's a big season for us. We haven't won a trophy in seven or eight years. We're feeling the pressure and we have to step up," the youngster told Sports Illustrated.

However, to end an eight season trophy drought, Arsenal need a large and strong first team, something Wilshere is aware of and knows his side lack, at present. The Gunners are believed to have £70m to spend but despite a number of rumours, have yet to announce any major signings.

A section of the club's fans have often called on Wenger to sign experienced professionals to back up talented youngsters like Wilshere and Theo Walcott. The former has added his support to that call, saying he believes the squad is still not robust enough to challenge for the title.

"In England, the season is so long, you need a good squad, a strong squad. We could maybe add a few more players that when we're getting tired we can change things up. You look at the good teams, the big teams like Manchester United, who have won the league. They can do that regularly," Wilshere continued.

Arsenal have been linked with Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain, Fiorentina's Stevan Jovetic and Everton's Marouane Fellaini, among others.

Meanwhile, England youngster Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain believes Wilshere being fit is the best signing. The midfielder has spent the better part of the last two seasons on the side-lines but is expected to be completely fit for the new season.

"Jack is back in training and looking really good. The fact he is looking so strong is good news for Arsenal. Hopefully, he can stay fit because he is an amazing player and can add a lot to our team. Is he the best kind of signing we can make? Yes," Chamberlain said.