The Gunners had their most dreadful Premier League campaign in the past two decades as they failed to make a top-four finish and qualify for UEFA Champions League for the first time in Arsene Wenger’s reign. Also, the shambolic 10-2 defeat ( in a two-legged tie) against Bayern Munich in Champions League caused a fan outrage who demanded a change in managerial role and instigated the famous ( or notorious) ‘Wenger Out’ campaign at Emirates. Arsenal, however, ended their season on a high note with five consecutive league victories and clinching the FA Cup title for record 13th time defeating Premier League champions Chelsea in a highly entertaining encounter. Arsene Wenger has extended his contract following this title glory and will remain with the Gunners until 2019.
Arsenal Players Who Impressed This Season
Alexis Sanchez has been the Gunners’ player of the season who netted 30 goals altogether during this campaign. New signing Shkodran Mustafi formed a rock-solid defensive partnership along with Laurent Koscielny and Arsenal’s ‘Kostafi’ earned loads of applauds in early months. Also, Rob Holding, the young centre-back, had a glorious campaign, particularly towards the end when the veteran gaffer shifted to a ‘back three’ formation that saved Arsenal’s season from utmost misery.
Players Who Disappointed The Most
Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka was brought in from Bundesliga outfit Borussia Monchengladbach for a hefty fee. The midfielder, however, failed to impress and was criticised for his disciplinary records being sent off twice in the league.
Season Status
The Gunners not only failed to challenge for the Premier League title once again but also finished outside ‘top four’ for the first time in 20 years. Their Champions League aspirations were shattered once more when they got hammered by Bayern Munich and suffered a disastrous 10-2 ( in a two-legged tie) defeat in the Round of 16 of Europe’s most elite competition. However, Arsenal somewhat revived their season when they defeated rivals Chelsea in FA Cup final fixture to conquer the silverware for record 13th time.
Areas of Improvement
Arsene Wenger’s contract extension has generated a mixed response among the fans and the veteran Frenchman has now been handed another lifeline to lift the Premier League title before retiring. But he needs to convince Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez – the contract rebels to sign long-term deals and make sure he brings more top-notch players like them to challenge for major silverware. They must strengthen their attack and add at least a winger as well as a striker in place of departing Lucas Perez to increase option and depth.
Expectations from 2017-18 Season
Arsenal have a poor European record in recent years but they can alter their fortunes by winning UEFA Europa League which consists of easier opponents. Also, restoring a place in Premier League’s top-four will be their primary objective and even a push for the title is possible if Wenger manages to retain the likes of Ozil, Sanchez and Oxlade-Chamberlain and acquire top resources for the upcoming campaign.
