Rewind to 21 May 2017, Arsenal finish outside of the Premier League top four for the first time in over two decades. Fast forward to today and Arsenal still sit outside the top four, albeit on goal difference, still in search of a return to the glory of Europe’s Premier competition, the Champions League.
This season Arsenal have looked a lot more likely to break the top four than in the last two and also have the back-up option of the Europa League. The real question is do the Gunners have what it takes to outdo Spurs and Chelsea in either of the competitions.
We take a look at why this could be the year for Arsenal, while also looking at the negatives that could hamper their chances.
POSITIVES:
Aubameyang & Lacazette
The pair have set the Premier League alight this season with 16 total goals and could potentially be more if some questionable officiating had gone in the Gunners favour.
They have created a formidable bond that has helped them become one of the best double acts in the league and if their form can continue there is no reason why Arsenal cannot make the Champions League for next season.
Lucas Torreira
The little Uruguayan has been a revelation in Arsenal’s engine room this season, with the midfielder even adding goals to his game in the last few weeks.
The defensive midfield position is one where Arsenal have been weak in since Gilberto Silva left, this new-look Arsenal midfield has the potential to propel Arsenal back into the Champions League.
NEGATIVES:
Poor defending
Even with Unai Emery replacing Arsene Wenger at the end of last season the Gunners defensive woes have continued.
The rash tackles from Shkodran Mustafi still give Arsenal fans nightmares and lapses of concentration still allow chances for opposing teams. Although there is an improvement from last season, small mistakes can cost points and the Gunners cannot afford to drop many points with competition at an all-time high.
Lack of quality wide players
While Arsenal were able to strengthen in most areas that needed it over the summer, they missed out on signing a new winger.
Currently, the Gunners have Alex Iwobi and Henrikh Mkhitaryan starting out wide with Aubameyang also crowbarred into the side in a wide position occasionally.
The quality is nowhere near the level of the teams around them. You only have to look at the likes of Sadio Mane, Eden Hazard, or Manchester City duo Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling. The options that Arsenal have in these positions just do not compare.
