Arsenal's ability to compete with the big clubs has gone backwards since their move to the Emirates Stadium, according to Nigel Winterburn.
The Gunners moved into their new home at the start of the 2006/07 season but have failed to win the title since 2004.
Manager Arsene Wenger has come under increasing pressure for the 12-year wait for the trophy as yet another challenge for silverware has fallen short this term.
Winterburn is adamant Arsenal's relocation was designed to help the club close the gap to their rivals but believes the move has had the opposite effect.
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"The problem Arsenal had was they sold the dream of moving to the new stadium to be able to compete with the big clubs," Winterburn told Sky Sports.
"I think what's happened is they've moved backwards in terms of being able to challenge for the title."
Arsenal currently occupy fourth place in the table and face another frantic battle to secure their place in next season's Champions League during the run-in.
With a period of enforced frugality over Winterburn has urged Wenger to strengthen his squad during the summer transfer window to prove to the club's fanbase that he wants to move forward.
"They have to do it next season, but they have to spend money," the former defender insisted.
"Having worked under him, I still think he is the man to take them forward.
"But they've got to get those signings right this season and the earlier they do it the better, because then the fans will look at that and say, 'Oh, well, okay, it looks like we do mean business this time.'"
