With hopes of a top four finish gone, Arsenal’s last remaining hope of playing Champions League football next season comes in the form of the Europa League.
Like Manchester United last season, Arsenal will look to win the secondary European competition in order to qualify for the premiere one next year.
So, with that being the case, the Gunners know that tonight’s game with AC Milan is the biggest of their season.
Arsenal played really well in the San Siro to claim a 2-0 win, but they’ll know that they need to guard against complacency at home in order to advance to the quarter finals.
There is a lot at stake for a lot of players tonight, many of whom could be playing for their futures. If the worst does happen and Arsenal lose, there’ll surely be an overhaul of the squad in the summer.
We’ve taken a look at some of the Gunners who we think are playing for their Arsenal careers.
Jack Wilshere
Jack Wilshere’s contract expires in the summer and as it stands, he’s going to be a free agent. If Wilshere can prove his quality and his fitness, Arsenal could well offer him the terms he’s looking for to stay at the club.
Extra Champions League revenue could help top up his salary too!
Alex Iwobi
Iwobi clearly has talent, but for whatever reason, he is so inconsistent. At times, he looks a world beater, other times he looks like he’s got his boots on the wrong feet.
A strong European campaign could see the Nigerian keep his place in the squad. A poor run could see him shipped off.
Petr Cech
No goalkeeper in history has more Premier League clean sheets than Petr Cech but his performances this year have left a lot to be desired.
If he does well and helps Arsenal secure Champions League football, then he could stay around. If not, it would not be a shock to see the Gunners look for a younger shot stopper.
Danny Welbeck
Danny Welbeck’s career at Arsenal has been a really mixed bag. Inconsistent performances and injuries mean the jury is still out on the England striker.
With Pierre-Emerick-Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette at the club, Welbeck needs to prove himself worthy of a place in the squad.
Hector Bellerin
Arsenal are reportedly considering selling Hector Bellerin. However, he’s clearly talented and if he impresses, he could easily persuade the Gunners to keep him.
Granit Xhaka
Xhaka arrived with a big reputation but he’s not really lived up to the hype. Like a lot of Arsenal players, he is talented but inconsistent.
Arsenal need to be better in midfield on a regular basis and Xhaka’s place is very much in doubt.