Arsene Wenger to leave Arsenal at the end of the season

Arsene Wenger has today announced through a statement released on Arsenal's website that he would be leaving the club at the end of the season. This would bring his near 22 year stay with the club to an end. The 68 year old was appointed Arsenal manager in September, 1996 when the club was still at it ancestry home of Highbury. In his time, the club moved from it old home to the 60, 000 capacity Emirates stadium in the 2006. Ten years after he initially arrived at the club.

In what has been a difficult season for the club, several fans have clamoured for him to end his stay at the club, that reached a new height last season after series of protest by fans. Despite ending last season with another FA Cup win to placate some sections of the fan base, the malaise of last season spilled over to this, and Arsenal have struggled in the league all season, as they are now prime to end in sixth place, which would be the lowest position Arsenal would end a season under the stewardship of the Frenchman. The Europa League is now an opportunity to end his time at the club on a high.

He had this to say in the statement announcing his departure from the club;

“After careful consideration and following discussions with the club, I feel it is the right time for me  to step down at the end of the season.

 I am grateful for having had the privilege to serve the club for so many memorable years.

 I managed the club with full commitment and integrity.

 I want to thank the staff, the players, the Directors and the fans who make this club so special.

 I urge our fans to stand behind the team to finish on a high.

 To all the Arsenal lovers take care of the values of the club.

 My love and support for ever.”

-Arsene Wenger

The club has indicated that they would make an appointment to replace Arsene Wenger as soon as possible. 

The Frenchman's time at the club has fetched Three Premier League titles (1998, 2002, 2004), Seven FA Cups, (1998, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2014, 2015, 2017) and Seven Community Shields, The Europa League could be part of that collection, if Arsenal can win it at the end of the season. 

Wenger: With goals and assists, Alex Iwobi will be a top class player

Arsene Wenger has heaped praise on midfielder Alex Iwobi.
The 21 year old was a surprise inclusion in the match against Chelsea
in Arsenal's last league match. A decision that raised eyebrow from
some sections of the club's fanbase.

However, the Nigeria international put in a solid performance, going
on to create more chances (3) than any other Arsenal player on the
day.

Now, his manager expects more from him especially with goals and assist.

"I like the fact that he can play in tight areas, that he turns the
game forwards, that he's very mobile.

"We expect him to be more efficient in the final third offensively
because you feel there are goals there & assists too."

"They [goals & assists] have to come out. Add that to he allows the
team to play very well - he'll be a top-class player."

Iwobi broke into the Arsenal first team in the second half of the
2015/2016 season. Having some solid performances along the way.

He continued with that rich vein of form the following season, but his
form dipped in the second half of last season, and he rarely made the
team afterwards.

A product of the Arsenal academy, he started the season with an
accomplished display against Chelsea in the Community Shield in
August. And with faith shown in him by Arsene Wenger especially in a
crucial away tie at Chelsea, he could be primed for more starts as the
season progresses.

Wenger on Chelsea game: Arsenal could have won it

Chelsea and Arsenal played out a goalless draw at Stamford Bridge on
Sunday. Both sides had chances to win the match during a pulsating
tie.

The result means Arsenal avoided defeat at Chelsea for the first time
in six years, and Arsene Wenger is of the opinion that his side could
have won it on the day.

Speaking after the match, he said

"It was about mentality and a response from our last away game. We
could have won it. It was an intense game.

"The battle was total. We are not in a transfer period and on the day
we played Liverpool that affected us. We are all human beings.

"If you play 55 games a season you can have a bad performance.

"But we were focused and determined. We tried to play when we had the
ball and we were close to winning the game. With a bit more freedom we
would have won the game.

"David Luiz, it looked excessive force to me, at what level did he
catch Kolasinac? I don't know."

Wenger: There is no hierarchy in the Arsenal squad

Arsenal opened their Europa League campaign with a 3-1 win over German
side Cologne.

In a match that was delayed for one hour due to crowd safety issues as
a result of the number of Cologne fans that descended on the Emirates
Stadium, the Gunners came from behind with second half goals from Sead
Kolasinac, Alexis Sanchez and Hector Bellerin making up for a poor
first half display.

Arsene Wenger made nine changes to his line up. With seven of the
players that featured against Bournemouth not part of the matchday
squad.

The Frenchman praised his squad for their second half display on the
night and asserted that there is no hierarchy in the squad as was
reflected by the number of changes he made for the match.

"We had a slow start and there was an accidental goal. After that it
was important not to concede and panic and put more pace into our
game. From then. we controlled the game and won convincingly in the
end. He told BT Sport.

"I think Sanchez is still running after his best form. He is a
fantastic football player but physically he has just come back. But he
has it in his locker to do something special, which he did.

"We want to do well in all the best competitions and I had an
experienced team today, even though I made nine changes. They are all
top class players, there is no hierarchy in the squad."

Arsenal are at Stamford Bridge on Sunday to face Chelsea in what is
expected to be a tough examination of the club's new found form.

Aliko Dangote to sack Arsene Wenger if he buys Arsenal

Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote has declared that he would effect a
managerial change at Arsenal if he buys the club.

The Nigerian, who is a huge fan of the club has gone public on several
occasions on his desire to buy over the current majority shareholder;
Stan Kroenke if decides to sell. The America's Kroenke Sports
Enterprise, KSE, owns 67% of the club, while Uzek billionaire, Alishar
Usmanov has 30% of the club's share holding.

Speaking to Bloomberg, he again reiterated that desire to someday buy
the club if Stan Koerenke decides to seek pastures new.

"The first thing I would change is the coach," the 60 year old said

"He has done a good job, but someone else should also try his
luck."

He continued

"If they get the right offer, I'm sure they would walk away,"

"Someone will give them an offer that will make them seriously
consider walking away. And when we finish the refinery, [ refinery
being built in Lagos, Nigeria] I think we will be in a position to do
that."

"It's a great team, well-run. It could be run better, so I will be
there. I will wait. Even if things change I will take it."

in previous interviews on this subject Aliko Dangote had never
mentioned the possibility of sacking Wenger if he buys the club.
Perhaps, he is seeking to give more traction to his assertions for it
to garner more interest, because of the Frenchman's long association
with the club and what he represents.

Reported to worth $11 billion, his desire to buy the club could remain
so for the time being, as Stan Kroenke has on numerous occasions said
he is in it for the long haul.

He reiterated that stand few months ago after he rejected a bid of
around £1 billion from Alishar Usmanov in April.

For Arsene Wenger, he signed a two year extension to his contract
which would see him extend his stay at the club to 23 years.

Wenger: Arsenal have to sell some players

Arsene Wenger has said that the club would have to let some players
leave because of it large squad.
Speaking after Arsenal's win over Chelsea on Sunday in the Community
Shield, the Frenchman said the squad has to be trimed down.

"To be honest, the number is too high," he said

"We will let some players go. Too much competition for places is
detrimental, but not enough competition for places is detrimental as
well."

So far, players that have left the club permanently this summer
includes goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who left for Juventus and Yaya
Sanogo who left for Toulouse after this contract expired.

As the club looked to trim down its squad, players that are in that
list of likely departures includes, Lucas Perez, who was the subject
of a bid from Deportivo la Coruna, Mathieu Debuchy, Kieran Gibbs, Carl
Jenkinson, Calum Chambers and Jack Wilshere.

The club has between now and the end of the month to shift out
unwanted players from it books.

Arsene Wenger calls for unity between club and fans ahead of new season

Following Arsenal's victory over Chelsea in the Community Shield at
Wembley on Sunday, Arsene Wenger has called for the fans to unite
behind the team ahead of the new campaign.

The second half of last season was characterised by protest and open
dissent from supporters. The kind never seen before in Wenger's reign
at the club. As sections of the club's fan base called for the French
man to end his two decade association with the club following a
difficult season which saw Arsenal miss out on a Champions League spot
for the first time in 20 years.

They still finished last season on a high following a record 13th FA
Cup win at Wembley over Sunday's opponent and Seventh for Arsene
Wenger.

What followed was a two year contract extension.

Now with the come from behind win over Chelsea on Sunday, the current
longest serving manager in Premier League has recognised that while
it's a dream to make the fans happy, there would be difficult times in
the coming compaign and he is imploring the fans, that at those
moments, they should unite behind the team.

"It is a dream to make the fans happy, a difficult dream, but we try
hard. I would like that they stand behind the team as we might go
through some very good periods and some not so good periods.

"We want to be united and together throughout the season."

Arsenal open their league campaign on Friday against Leicester City,
when they would be looking to avoid the pitfalls of going four times
in five season without winning their opening match.

Wenger: Alexis Sanchez will respect his contract

Arsenal's pre- season has been over shadowed by speculation of players
who have just under a year left in their contract. And the principal
protagonist has been Alexis Sanchez. No press conference has gone by
without manager Arsene Wenger being asked about the Chilean's
contract.

After returning to training on Tuesday following an extended break,
the spot light has again being on him.

Arsene Wenger has today, re-emphasised the position he has held along
all summer, by saying he would be staying at Arsenal, and he expects
hm to respect his contract.

"He will be here for this season and if we manage to do it for more
seasons, we will do it as well." Wenger said

"The only thing I can tell you is he is focused,"

"My decision is clear - he will stay and he will respect that."

The Frenchman also went further to say, he would not address any more
speculation about the Chilean's contract publicly.

"It is not information anymore, it is suicide."

It looks every bit that it would be another season in Arsenal's
colours for the Chilean who was the club's leading scorer last season.

Can Arsene Wenger do a Roger Federer?

Arsene Wenger 

Roger Federer 

It's near three months that the 2016/2017 English football topflight season came to an end. With Chelsea romping to the Premier League title after a dominant campaign. They were only prevented from doing the double after they lost 2-1 to Arsenal in the FA Cup final in May. The Gunners third FA Cup win in four years.

Both teams meet again in the curtain raiser to the English season when they contest the Community Shield at Wembley on 6 August. 

After that attention shifts firmly to the start of the Premier league season when Arsenal open yet another campaign with Arsene Wenger in charge when they lock horns with Leicester City in the opening match on 11 August at the Emirates. 

The campaign would mark Arsene Wenger's 21st season in charge of the club. And it now 13 years since the club last won the league title.

Arsenal's current situation under Wenger mirrors the situation Roger Federer was in going into the current Lawn Tennis season in January. Prior to the Australian Open in Melbourne, the Swiss maestro had gone five years without a Grand Slam title. With four Grand Slam titles up for grabs each year, it almost reminiscent of Arsenal's 13 year title drought.

Added to that, Roger Federer being 35, an old player in tennis terms, he wasn't considered as one of the favourites going into the 2017 season. Like Wenger,  who at 67 is considered as an old horse in a football landscape now dominated by younger managers. 

However,  Roger Federer succeeded in confounding doubters, as well as himself as he never believed he could achieve the same fest he has so far attained this year. 

How it all began? 

  

Roger Federer was out for six months with a knee injury, which has added to his remarkable feat this year. Looking at his six months out, it denied him the opportunity of being in familiar surroundings in the tennis court. Just like Arsenal would have to spend a season without Champions League football. After spending upwards of 20 consecutive seasons in the UEFA's premier club competition, they would have to negotiate the lesser Europa League this season. Like Federer, Arsenal would be in unfamiliar terrain. Just like the Swiss who hadn't tasted being out that long out of the game.

Also, in beating Rafa Nadal in January's Australian Open, Roger Federer did what he had not done for a long time. He had lost in six Grand Slam titles to the Spaniard, losing the last four in a row. But he pulled off a remarkable first title since 2012 by beating his fiercest rival in the court. Like Arsenal, Arsene Wenger would have to overcome key rivals to win another Premier league title. In his first decade as manager at Arsenal, he mostly had to deal with Manchester United, before a change in the financial landscape made other clubs contenders. A bit like how it was just Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal dominating the tennis scene until Novak Djokovic and Andy Murray finally broke the duopoly. 

Wenger would have to overcome several rivals to land Arsenal another title they have craved since the move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006.

Roger Federer made a tactical decision to skip the clay court season to rest his knee as he claimed. But many might describe that decision to rest differently, but the end was that he landed him the Wimbledon title for a record eight time. 

In the same vain,  Arsene Wenger would have to find tune a rotation mechanism that would suit his squad for the season ahead as they negotiate the tough terrain of the Europa league. The decision by the Swiss to skip the clay court season landed him a record 8th title at the All England Club. 

Arsene Wenger would have to use his squad the way he has never done to achieve the club's goal for the season, one of which inevitably includes a quick return to the Champions League. This is necessary as the Frenchman isn't adept at rotating his squad something he seem to loathe. But with the Europa league on Thursday nights before negotiating a league fixture on Sunday, especially when it involves traveling away to far places in Eastern Europe, he has no option than to manage his squad through rotation.

The decision to manage his body wisely by opting to miss the clay court season paid off for Federer. Wenger's decision in how he manages his squad would go a long way in that regard.

The Swiss legend wasn't given much of a chance going into 2017 season, he was largely written off. His injury lay off made it easier for the pundits to make a decision. Some had written his tennis epitaph prior to that, declaring that he was an old war horse who was apparently struggling to reprise past heights. 

The same can be said of Arsene Wenger, the Frenchman has been long in the Premier league scene. He has been continually derided in some quarters as lacking what it takes to recapture his glory years when he won the Premier League title three times in eight years during his first decade as Arsenal manager. Just like Federer did while in his twenties. 

Like Federer who still won other ATP titles during his Grand Slam drought, Arsene Wenger has led Arsenal to three FA Cups in four years, but the league title has proven difficult in the Emirates era. That could be about to change? 

Going into the Australian Open in January, Roger Federer was seeded 17th. But that wasn't an impediment in winning what was his 18th Grand Slam title.

Now, going into this new season on the horizon, some pundits are already marking Arsenal down as potentially finishing in sixth position in the league. But prediction and reality are two different things just as Leicester City showed in 2016.

Whether Arsene Wenger and his Arsenal team can defy the odds and to a Roger Federer, is in the realm of time. 

Wenger: Alexis return to training delayed due to flu

After Arsenal's 5-2 win over Portuguese champions Benfica in
Saturday's Emirates Cup match, Arsene Wenger was asked about the
current situation of Chilean forward, Alexis Sanchez.

The Frenchman had on Thursday given an update on the 28 year old that
he would be back to training on Sunday. But following the Sanchez's
post on social media revealing that he was sick,

Wenger has revealed that he wouln't be back to training on Sunday as
earlier scheduled.

"He has flu, yes. I had him on text
yesterday." Wenger said.

"He will come back as soon as possible and we were in touch with him
and his doctor and he has no basic problem apart from the fact that he
should come back tomorrow, but he comes back on Tuesday."

"He's flying back as soon as he's in a position to fly back. He has
flu and that's a question of normally four or five days."

Following this latest development, there is no way the Chilean can be
fit for the club's first league match of the season against Leicester
City at the Emirates.

Arsenal open their season next week Sunday against Chelsea in the
curtain raiser of the English season, the Community Shield.

While they conclude their pre-season programme when they wrap up the
Emirates Cup against Sevilla on Sunday.

Wenger: Alexis Sanchez returns this weekend

Arsenal's summer has been dominated by the contract situation of
Alexis Sanchez. But with Arsene Wenger speaking to the club's in house
media channel, Arsenal player, ahead of this weekend Emirates Cup, he
gave a general assessment of his squad as well an update on the
Chilean international who had an extended holiday following his
participation in the Confederations Cup where Chile lost in the final
to Germany on July 2.

"Alexis and Mustafi, their first training session will be on Sunday,
the day we play against Sevilla [in the Emirates Cup],"

"They are practising on the day."

Arsene Wenger gave an hint on how early both players could feature
this season in view of their late return from their break following
international commitments. On this, He continued by saying


"First of all you make a really good check up of where they are, how
much they have worked during their break,"

"After, once you know where you stand, they need an adjusted programme
and to see how quickly you can fit them in again.

"Of course it depends as well on what is the need in the squad, what
is their quality. All of these things together make your decision. Do
you put them on the bench when they are not ready [to start]? It is
easier to put a striker on the bench than a defender, sometimes.
Because in a short period they can make an impact. We'll see."

The manager would be mindful of rushing either player back to the
team. Arsenal have adequate cover in defence if Mustafi is held back
with Per Mertesacker, Rob Holding, Nacho Monreal, Laurent Koscielny
and Calum Chambers while if things doesn't go well in attack in the
early matches of the season, he could be tempted to call on the
Chilean as he is the club's talisman.

Wenger on Alexis: My mind is made up

The speculation surrounding the future of Alexis Sanchez has dominated
Arsenal's pre-season. And everytime, questions have been asked about
the Chilean's future, Arsene Wenger has been consistent in stating
that the club wasn't going to sell him as he enters the last year of
his contract.

Sanchez has been the subject of interest from PSG of France. With the
reports emanating from there going from a strong interest to losing
interest in signing the Chilean because of his wage demands.
But Wenger has dismissed those media reports as pure imagination.

He has now gone further to state that his mind is made up and the 29
year old who is currently on holiday after his extended season would
not be sold.

Speaking as Arsenal returned to London after they concluded their tour
of Asia, he reiterated that line again.

"I read L'Equipe in the last three or four days,"
"It has moved from Sanchez to Neymar. Today they speak about Neymar,
three days ago they speak about Alexis.

"They need as well, like you [reporters], subjects. They cannot get
Sanchez so they go for Neymar."

The resolute position of Wenger is in contrast to the previous times
the club has been in such situation in the past. And he gave his
reasons why Arsenal won't be selling even with just one year left in
the Chilean's contract.

"My mind has been made up for a while now,"
"I think I made it clear a few times.

"We are in a strong financial situation. So we want to keep our best
players. You can see that there is a fight everywhere to get top
players.

"Sanchez has got one year to go on his contract and we have no need to
make money. He will be part of the team next year."

In spite of Wenger's strong stands, sections of the club's fanbase
would only truly embrace this position until the transfer closes and
the Chilean is still at the club.

Koscielny: I am very happy at Arsenal

Arsenal defender Laurent Koscielny has spoken of how happy he is at
the club and how he is enjoying his stay in London with his wife and
kids.

The 31 year old joined Arsenal in 2010 from Ligue 1 side Lorient.
After initially struggling in his first season at the club, he has
grown to become a stalwart of Arsenal's defence over this years. Now
in his seventh year and eight season at the club with 350 appearances,
he has very reason to be happy.

Speaking to the media as Arsenal concluded its pre-season tour of
Asia, he also reiterated that he wasn't leaving the club anytime soon
for any reason.

"When I first got here, I didn't think about how long I would stay at
this club – but now I am starting my eighth season so I am very happy
with this," he said

"I am happy in my life every day, not just the football but my life
with my wife and kids in London. We enjoy it, that's why I have stayed
for a long time here.

"I have a long contract with Arsenal and I have [no reason] to leave
the club. I am just here to enjoy my job and give everything for the
team, and get the best results for the club. If i can do all of that,
then I am happy.
"Arsene Wenger is a big [inspiration] for me. He bought me from France
and has given me everything to help me play for Arsenal, and has
helped me as a man too.

"I have a big [loyalty] to this club and to the boss too. I have
stayed here for seven years and I have learnt a lot from him, so I am
happy to be here with him and to fight for him because he is a great
person."

During his time in North London, he has three FA cups to his name. And
he would looking to add more silverware following the new contract
extension he signed in January.

Would Wenger keep his 'not selling' words on Alexis?

The speculation surrounding Alexis Sanchez contract situation at the
club has rumbled on again this summer after it dominated much of last
season.
And this has dominated much of Arsene Wenger's early pre-season press
conferences and comments with the club's in house media team.

The 28 year old Chilean hinted that he was keen to play for a club in
the champions league in an interview. A competition he knows Arsenal
will not participate in this coming season. Though he reiterated the
main decision lies with the club. And so far going by the utterances
and signals from the club through Arsene Wenger, it seems the club is
keen to keep the Chilean for the reminder of his one year contract
which means, he could leave on a free next summer if he doesn't sign a
contract extension during the season.

Wenger confirmed this again when he spoke to the club website that the
decision has been made to keep the Chilean and not sell in spite of
the links to Bayern Munich, PSG and Manchester City.

"The decision has been made and we will stick to that – the decision
is not to sell.

"I do not give too much importance to things that are translated. The
whole interview, which I got, did not really mean that [he only wants
Champions League football].

"The main focus for us is on the Premier League, that for me is more
important than the Champions League.

"We rested sometimes players in the group stage of the Champions
League for the Premier League, so that has become the biggest
importance for us.

"For the rest, we have played 20 years in the Champions League and 17
years before Alexis arrived and three years with him – he can get us
back in there."

However, the uncertainty over the Alexis Sanchez situation is that
Wenger has tolled this same line in the past especially when Robin van
Persie was in a similar situation. As well as Samir Nasri who also had
one year left in his contract before he left for Manchester City.

Yet Wenger has always drew a line between the financial landscape at
the club at the time and what currently obtains at the club.

Whereas, the considerations in terms of players who wouldn't sign
contracts have always been purely economic, but for sporting reasons
and the fact that the club needs its top players to challenge for the
coming season, it is time for the club to put sporting interest first
in handling Alexis Sanchez future which is why the club must match his
words with action.

With the pursuit of Thomas Lemar suffering several setbacks after
three bids were turned down by Monaco, the resolve to hold Alexis to
the reminder of his contract could have been strengthened. Though
there have been reports that both situations are not related. Still it
would have been difficult to believe that as Wenger would had issues
fitting these players into a lineup which meant Lemar looked likely
like a signing to cushion the effect of a possible Alexis' departure.

When Robin van Persie left for Manchester United in 2012, he
participated in the club's pre-season programme before he departed
during the transfer window of that season. So until the transfer
window closes, that is when there would be a partial closure on the
Alexis Sanchez saga.

The Chilean being out of the spot light with his extended holiday
after his participation at the Confederations cup means the
speculations is abit muted. But all that should change when he returns
to the club and how he deals with questions on his future would be
interesting.

Wenger: New coach Lehmann can help Arsenal players with winning mentality

Arsenal legend Jens Lehmann joined the club's coaching staff in June.
The former German international was part of the invincibles that went
an entire season league undefeated 2003/2004.
He went on to make 200 appearances for the club over two spells.

Arsene Wenger spoke to the club's in house channel, Arsenal player,
spoke on what the qualities the German would bring to the table in his
first coaching job and how this would impact the players.

"He has a demanding attitude and can give his desire to win to the
players, to help them achieve their targets,"

"That's what you want from these players. "He can also give good
advice because he has gone through periods where it was not easy for
him, where it wasn't all going well, and I believe his rigorous
attitude to his career is similar to Per Mertesacker. It's important
that a team is surrounded by people like that.

"He enjoys being involved in training as well, and to experience the
pleasure he had when he was giving his best for Arsenal Football Club
again. He's still highly motivated and that motivation never goes.
When you want to do things well, I don't think that ever changes."

The all action German was never shy of dishing it out to his team
mates and opponents alike during his playing days, no doubt
transferring that attitude of always being on your toes would go a
long way to aiding this current group of Arsenal players who have a
knack for losing their way when things don't go the way they
envisaged.

Arsene Wenger's new contract: More of the same or there would be changes?

Arsene Wenger signed a two year extension to extend his stay at Arsenal to 2019 during the week.. The Frenchman faced arguably his most difficult season as manager of the North London club after a terrible run of form from the end of January to early April culminated in seven defeats from twelves matches in all competitions. Yet as it common with Arsene Wenger's Arsenal over the years, they always seem to end the season with a flourish after the usual mid season loss of form. An untypical change of formation for the first time since September. 1996 which saw the manager adopt a 3-4-3 formation meant Arsenal won nine out of its ten matches to finish the season. The high of winning the FA Cup against champions Chelsea culminated in another contract extension. The cup win at Wembley made Arsenal the most successful club in the history of the competition with its 13th win, while Arsene Wenger became the most successful manager in FA Cup history with its seventh win. Its a feat that would take some beating to overcome.

The familiar failings of Arsenal were all on display for all to see this season in the just concluded season. The usual starting a season in a flourish, which inevitably lures the fans to a sense of false security and excitement. But when push comes to shove and the pressures goes up, the team collapses. Yet, the manager attributed this year's collapse to unusual circumstances which had to do with uncertainties over his future which he claimed unsettled his players.
The way Arsenal overcome bogey teams such as Southampton and Stoke City away from homes in matches they had to win, must make its fans wonder why they can't show such enthusiasm for a title race the way they do for a top four finish. Now after the glorious failure of settling for a Europa league spot, which was rewarded with a new contract, something has to give.
The contract extension was followed by the usual official line and assertion that there would be changes in the transfer market in the off season. Such lines have been heard before, but where never backed by actions. which is why whether this contract extension would end up being more of the same or there would be genuine change would be known in the weeks and months to come.

One reason why the stasis can't continue is because there are actually questions that needs to be addressed. Since Arsenal only deploy a weapon of reactionary activity, they would do well to react to the numerous players that their contracts have been allowed to run down to just one year left. Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Alexis Oxlade Chamberlain's contracts have to be addressed. The likes of Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs would have to be sold with just a year left in their contracts. Carl Jenkinson, Matthieu Debuchy, Yaya Sanogo and Lucas Perez, who is looking for a move a way after growing frustrated at a lack of playing time.

Arsene Wenger would have to be more ruthless in his approach to dealing with players. it;s an indictment and pure negligence that a player like Yaya Sanogo was in Arsenal's books for four years, and yet the club is reluctant to meet the wage demands of the likes of Alexis and Ozil. If non performing players are removed from the wage will, it would go a long way in adequately fixing wage demands of key players.

It remains to be seen how Arsene Wenger approach the summer's business. he, more than anybody else would know that, things can't possibly continue the way they have been before. He has shown he can change with that change of formation for the first time in twenty years, and now, he has to replicate that in his transfer business this summer.

Could Europa League Benefit Arsenal?

It was another disappointing season in the Champions League for Arsenal as Arsene Wenger's side crashed out in the last 16 for the seventh consecutive season. But this season was unlike others, as his team suffered a scandalous 10-2 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich.

In previous seasons, Arsenal have impressed in the group stages only to fall at the first knock out stage. However, despite finishing top of the its group in this season's competition, the last couple of seasons has seen them struggle at the group stage. Last season, it took a last gasp 3-0 win over Olympiacos in Athens for it to qualify for the knock out stages, after suffering three defeats at the group stage.

However, in spite of that, in previous seasons, Arsenal have gone on to successfully qualify for the champion league even after it continuous struggles in the competition, but this season is looking different so far.

Arsenal are currently fifth, four points behind Manchester City, with two games in hand, though Pep Guardiola’s side also have a game in hand.

While the other teams currently occupying the top four are largely in form and have been winning matches, Arsenal recorded their first win in the league since February after a 3-0 win over West Ham United. A victory that took them to fifth. This was after four defeats and a draw in five league matches which has resulted in them not just losing ground completely in the title race, but the top four.

Arsenal's record in the Champions League in Arsene Wenger's 21 years at the club reads:

One Final in 2006: (defeat to Barcelona)

Two Semi Finals in 2006 & 2009: (win over Villareal and defeat to

Manchester United)

Four Quarter Finals: 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010,

Last 16: (2007, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017)

Arsenal's place in the Champions League has largely been reduced to participation as they have struggled to compete with the top clubs when they get to the knock out stages.

With the possibility of qualifying for the Europa league now a visible option with their place on the table with a third of the season gone, the club could benefit from playing in it.

First the Europa league have often been derided by English clubs because of the riches of the Premier League, and the difficulty of having to cope with playing on Thursday and weekends in the league, but clubs in Spain have used the Europa league has a launch pad to a successful campaign in the Champions League. Atletico Madrid's recent consistent displays in the Champions League was built on winning the Europa League, a triumph that enabled them to develop a winning mentality in Europe. This has translated to two final appearances in the Champion league which has been defeats to city rivals Real Madrid.

Arsenal could benefit from such. The club is in need of a winning mentality in Europe. And a change of competition could spark that into being. They have struggled to build any steam in the Champions League.

The Europa League could just be the place to build that steam. Last time they played in it in the old UEFA Cup, in 2000, they got to the final where they lost to Galatasaray.

However, some could point to the fact that same failings that have plagued Arsenal in the Champions League could still be evident in the Europa League if they play in it. Arsenal have struggled against teams like Dinamo Zagreb, Anderlecht and Olympiacos, sides that have similar standings with most teams in the Europa league. Which is to say it is not a giving that they could actually benefit from playing in it.

Still, a change of competition could actually make Arsenal break it hoodoo in struggling in the early stages of knock out football in Europe. Having the nous and experience to play under a different pressure, but in the same stage of a European competition and qualifying beyond that stage could only aid in building confidence in dealing with the pressure of Europe.

With a few games left of this season, and with it looking likely that champions league place finish is out of it hands, a Europa league placement could just be it for the coming season.

Video: EPL Highlights: Arsenal 3 West Ham 0

Arsenal returned to winning ways in the premier league, after they posted their first win in the Premier League since February. Goals from Mesut Ozil, Theo Walcott and Oliver Giroud sealed a 3-0 win over West Ham at the Emirates for Arsene Wenger's side. The under pressure Arsenal manager saw his side record only their first win in just six premier league matches after defeats against Watford, Chelsea, Liverpool, Chelsea and West Brom with the 2-2 draw against Manchester City, the only time the Emirates side avoided defeat during that run of matches.

They next face Crystal Palace on Monday next week as they continue their quest to finish in the top four for another season.

Video Highlights is below:

Arsene Wenger: Title Race Still On

Arsene Wenger says Arsenal are still in the title race. In what could best be described as more hope than reality. The Frenchman ever an optimist who seems to be leaning towards a top four finish than any realistic chance of overturning a twelve points deficits over Chelsea with fourteen games left of the season.
Addressing the assembled media during his weekly press conference, he replied thus: when asked whether the title race was over for Arsenal.

"It is never over; we are not to behave like that. Even if you [reporters] think like that, I don't,"

 "We look at the teams who surround us, we are all in a pack that is very tight and the fight for every position is massive as it has always been in the Premier League - maybe even more so this season."

The second part of his response is particularly apt with just six points separating Tottenham Hotspur who are second and Manchester United that are sixth. As it stands, one of the top clubs could miss out on the Champions League next season. Arsenal have qualified for the champions league in all of Wenger's season with the club. However, with five clubs separated with just six points, and the club just two points away from dropping to sixth, the consecutive loss to Watford and Chelsea could be terminal  in the long run especially with visits to White Hart Lane and Anfield still to come this season.
He went further to emphasise why Arsenal are still in the title race and Chelsea's advantage over other clubs.

 "If it is over [title race] for us, then it is over for everyone else because we are in a pack there.
"They [Chelsea] have an advantage - they don't play in Europe, they play for nothing and have no midweek games."

No manager would tell the media that a job has been lost. Doing that would send a wrong message to the players. But in reality, he knows the title race is over. The loss to Watford at the Emirates was the nail on the coffin, the defeat to Chelsea was just to reaffirm the funeral rites of a title race that death already.

Team	GP	W	D	L	GF	GA	GD	PTS
1	Chelsea	24	19	2	3	51	17	34	59
2	Tottenham	24	14	8	2	46	16	30	50
3	Man. City	24	15	4	5	49	29	20	49
4	Arsenal	24	14	5	5	52	28	24	47
5	Liverpool	24	13	7	4	52	30	22	46
6	Man United	24	12	9	3	36	21	15	45

Arsene Wenger's Transfer Poker

Once again, Arsenal go into the new season which starts on Saturday
without the necessary signings that would strengthen the team. For a
number of years, Arsenal's goal output has significantly reduced
because of the dearth of quality strikers at the club. It was the
team's lack of scoring that has cost it valuable opportunities to win
the title, but this is not forgetting it defensive frailties that is
well documented.

And going into the new season, the team is more in need of a defensive
signing than the equally important centre forward that it needs. With
Per Mertesacker ruled out until at least the new year with a knee
injury and Gabriel's ankle injury that has ruled him out for up to two
months, Arsenal are left with the inexperienced trio of Calum
Chambers, new signing, Rob Holding and Kristian Bieliek as central
defensive options going into the match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Laurent Koscielny's extended break after his participation at the
Euros means this weekend's match would come too soon for him. The same
applies to Mesut Ozil and Oliver Giroud. All of whom only just resumed
training this Wednesday.

Arsene Wenger can still choose to feature either of Mathieu Debuchy or
Nacho Monreal in central defence, but it could largely be a risk
against a Liverpool side that would be keen to start the new season on
a high under Jurgen Klopp.

For all of Arsenal's dithering in the transfer market, they have
brought in a midfielder in Granit Xhaka way in May, who should add
much needed physicality in central midfield, and his technicality and
passing range means he would add further pose to a midfield that was
devoid of Santi Cazorla's calmness in possession last season.

From the pre-season games and his performance at the Euros, the 23
year old Swiss international has shown that he would be a quality
addition to the Arsenal squad. The presence of Mohammed Elneny, Aaron
Ramsey, Francis Coquelin, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere, if he can
stay fit makes the central midfield Arsenal's strongest position.

However, the same cannot be said of Arsenal's current defensive and
striking options which is in dire need of an upgrade. Before the
defensive injuries in pre season, the team was in need of a central
defender. And the attempt to sign a striker has not been successful
for a number of years with failed bids for the likes of Higuain, Luis
Suarez and the recent bid for Jamie Vardy.

Now, with 21 days to the end of the transfer window, Arsene Wenger
would have to deploy his best poker skills to sign the players his
team needs.
During the course of the summer, he has bemoaned the inflated prices
of the transfer market, but at other times, he has also been quick to
say it is something Arsenal have to accept as the prices are a
reflection of the huge sums avialable to English clubs because of the
new television deal.

In spite of the shortage of signings this season from Arsenal, they
have continually been linked to several players. Mustafi of Valencia,
the 24 year old German international defender has virtually been
linked every week for the last one month with reports claiming that
both clubs are still in talks to bring the former Everton defender to
the Emirates. He has valued at £25m. If Arsene Wenger intends to have
him in place against Liverpool, he must be signed and registered
before 12 GMT on Friday to be eligible to feature against Liverpool.

While the Frenchman has stated on several occasions that he is still
in the transfer market, he has also emphasised the importance of
concentrating on the players already at the club's disposal. A line of
assertion that means there is unlikely to be any new face ahead of the
match against Liverpool.

Arsenal under Arsene Wenger have always deployed an approach of being
reactive in the transfer market rather than being proactive. Little
wonder that Wenger remarked that they are waiting for an opportunity
to arise to sign certain players. Most times, such opportunity never
arises, instead it is left for the club to create such an opportunity
by putting in a bid the club would be unable to turn down. However,
Wenger always has his valuation of players so, it is not unusual that
certain deals over the years has fallen through as a result.

With the increased competition in the English Premier League, the
Frenchman cannot afford to do what he did last season when he made
Arsenal the only club not to sign an outfield player in Europe's top
five leagues. Although, he has already signed three players in Granit
Xhaka, Rob Holding and Takuma Asano this summer, the transfer window
will be considered a failure by Arsenl faithful if he agains fails to
bring in a striker and the defender his team desperately needs.

He has often compared the transfer market to playing a game of poker.
It is now left to him play it the way it would be favourable to his
team's needs.