Arsenal might have prioritized buying a forward in the January transfer window, but according to Arsene Wenger the team have not lost out because they have one of the best players in Gervinho, who is set to come back from the Africa Cup of Nations.
It is a well known fact that Arsenal chased the signature of David Villa, but had to give up because Barcelona were unwilling to sell in January.
Atletico Madrid forward Adrian Lopez was another name that was considered, but Wenger was reluctant to match the asking price.
So, Arsenal did not end up strengthening their forward line, and now Wenger believes it might have been a blessing in disguise because of Gervinho's presence.
"We worked very hard on it, we were everywhere," Wenger said. "I would have loved to take somebody else but we didn't find anyone.
"In the Africa Cup of Nations, the best player is Gervinho. It's simple. Why should we go there when the best player is Gervinho? We already have Gervinho.
"Manchester United, who did they buy? Chelsea, who did they buy? Liverpool bought. Man City didn't buy -- for one single reason.
"For the top, top, top clubs, it's difficult to strengthen your team in the middle of the season."
Arsenal, however, were forced to dip into their budget to bring in a left-back and Wenger believes he deserves some of the credit for finding a quality player in Nacho Monreal with barely any time remaining.
"We are quite lucky to have found Nacho because (Kieran) Gibbs got injured for four to six weeks," Wenger added.
"And we found in 48 hours a player of that calibre... you have to give me at least that credit. I know that I don't get a lot but that is true."
Monreal made a commendable debut for the Gunners against Stoke and is again expected to feature in the English Premier League as well as the F.A. Cup. However, Wenger will have to find a way to fill that left-back role in the Champions League game against Bayern Munich.
Andre Santos has had a disastrous campaign, and therefore playing Thomas Vermaelen at fullback might be the better option.
