Thread by @Peterhoest

A few points from the Fans Forum at Arsenal tonight.
Vinai: The transfer window wasn’t like a normal TW. Dramatic COVID impact. Outgoing was difficult leaving too many players and a difficult decision. #AFC

Vinai: Despite all the stories, it was a technical decision from Arteta & his technical staff to leave out Papa & Ozil. + Saliba from EL. Purely on sporting criteria.

Vinai: We made another significant investment, following on from significant investments over the last two summers. To get this club back to competing where we want to be.

Vinai: Behind the scenes, everybody is disappointed, but they’re also being quite measured. We working extremely hard. Everyone is sticking together to turn it around. We absolutely do believe results will come. We’re not ignoring what we’re seeing on the pitch.

Vinai: We’re clearly going through a very difficult period, but we’re convinced we’ll be able to get back on track.

Vinai: The pandemic is having a very big impact on matchday, broadcast and commercial rev. and much more.
Arsenal continues to support the local community. 500.000 meals delivered to locals.

Vinai: Delighted to have fans back, it makes a huge difference. Short-lived, but a step in getting things back to normal. A particular thanks to the supporters’ groups, who have been very helpful. (Ping @AST_arsenal )

Edu then took open Q's.
"I try to be as open as possible. I like to hear from you. As a Brazilian, I’m very open. I’m not scared to say things. We’re are not comfortable in this situation we’re in."

Edu: Every single club has problems. The stories about a split between players & Arteta are not true. Stories about players not believing and not trusting MA are not true.

Edu: It’s quite clear what we need. (about transfers)
We need a player with creativity in the middle, we don’t have that in the squad right now.

Edu: Maybe he needs a little more time. He’s a bright talent. We need to talk with him and Mikel to plan for next year. (about Saliba)

Both players have been fined by the club. (about red cards)

Vinai: We have simplified the structure. The technical team – Per M, Mikel, and Edu.
Raul won’t be replaced – Huss will be.

Vinai: we’re all 100% behind Mikel. I know I can’t convince you by words, it’s what happens on the pitch that matters.

Leno chose it because he really likes the shirt. (about Leno wearing the away shirt)

A lot of fan groups raised money for charity instead of PPV. Vinai specifically mentioned @ArsenalVPodcast and their charity.

That's what I got written down. Next meeting around March/April.