Although qualified for the last four of the Champions League, Mikel Arteta finds himself under growing media pressure. Observers are now wondering about the Spanish technician’s ability to keep his job if the Gunners finish the year without any trophy.
The relief was palpable at the Emirates Stadium after the goalless draw against the Sporting CP (0-0), synonymous with qualification thanks to the success acquired in the first leg (1-0). However, this laborious performance convinced no one. If Gabriel Jesus or Leandro Trossard lacked realism, it is above all the collective aspect which worries. Joe Cole also stressed that Arsenal “would lose to a more prestigious European team” by producing such content. Already beaten in the EFL Cup final by Manchester City and eliminated from the FA Cup by a Championship resident, the Londoners saw their season turned upside down. John Cross, editor-in-chief of Mirrorexpressed his fears about TNT Sportsbelieving that it would be “very difficult to overcome” another total failure. THE nine points ahead formerly owned at the head of the Premier League are visibly melting under the constant pressure of Pep Guardiola’s men.
A solid reconstruction but an uncertain future
The reconstruction work carried out by Mikel Arteta for six years has been judged ” outstanding “ by his peers. He managed to recreate a strong bond with the supporters and put Arsenal back on the map of Europe. However, the psychological aspect weighs heavily on the current workforce. According to Cross, the team seems “a little fearful” when approaching the final sprint. The transition from a potential historic quadruple to a possible white season weakens the Spaniard’s position. “I don’t know if we can ruin everything and still continue”asks the journalist, pointing out the loss of credit that the manager could suffer from his managers and fans.
Despite this heavy atmosphere and real frustration after the recent defeat against Bournemouththe management of the Gunners does not yet seem to give in to panic. Internal sources even indicate that a proposal for new contract could be examined this summer. Everything will ultimately depend on the outcome of the double confrontation againstAtlético Madrid in the semi-final and the club’s ability to resist City’s return to the league. The issue remains hot, because if the club « adore » his coach, the demands of high level could impose radical choices in the event of major disillusionment. The respect gained over the years may not be enough if Arsenal were to “ruin everything” in the final straight. An early elimination in Europe or a second place in the championship would perhaps seal the fate of the Basque technician.
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