Former Gunner Robert Pires believes Robin van Persie will only remain at Arsenal if the club bring in big-name signing next summer and some form of silverware.
The former French international watched Van Persie score a brace of goals against Dortmund on Wednesday night, which secured The Gunners top spot in their group and a place in the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Although Pires, who lifted two Premier League titles and three FA Cups during his six year spell with Arsenal, thinks Van Persie will commit his future to the north London club, the 38-year-old Frenchman believes the Gunners must acquire top notch signings in order to keep their prized asset:
‘I think he will stay. Why? He has status at Arsenal and he is highly regarded. But I also believe that Arsenal need to sign some important players next summer. That will help to keep him.’
Pires also mentions the need for Arsenal to end their six year trophy drought:
‘When you win a big competition, it helps to give a winning mentality.
‘It was difficult at the start of the season, but since their 1-0 win in Marseille, results have improved.
‘In people such as Yossi Benayoun, Mikel Arteta and Per Mertesacker, Arsenal have brought in experienced players. They have settled in and if this squad can win silverware this season, it can be the start of something.’
Article courtesy of Tony Merakli at Gunnershpere