It’s nice to maintain consistency in the best and most competitive league in the world, but you can’t resist a good old cup run and a few trophies on the way, can’t you?
Well, for Arsenal, it has been eight measly, long, dry (and just horrible) years for Arsene Wenger’s side.
The last glory which came in the FA Cup in 2005 against Manchester United, was the pinnacle of the North London club’s dominance of the game. Being the unbeaten side in the league in the 2003/04 season was a tremendous accomplishment too; the only side to replicate that was Preston North End in the opening stages of the League back in the late 1800’s. Also, Champions League consistency has also played a part, with Wenger’s side almost always making it through to the knockout rounds.
However, since that glorious afternoon in 2005, trophies have eluded the Frenchman and the Arsenal fanbase’s patience is beginning to run out. Wenger can’t say that Arsenal haven’t had the chance; they have been in the UCL final in 2006 losing to Barcelona, losing the League Cup final against Chelsea and Birmingham in 2007 and 2011 and many close shaves with the Barclays Premier League.
People don’t remember the nearly men and Arsenal have been replaced by the likes of Chelsea, Manchester Unired and even Liverpool who have all won trophies.
Wenger infamously compared 4th place to winning a trophy, dubbing finishing in that prized position is like a trophy. However, many men are sacked at the thought of no trophies at such a big club but Arsenal have placed their trust in Wenger, and whether the trust will ever be repaid is the question on fans’ lips.
Many questions float around at the thought of Wenger being ousted such as: ‘Who can replace Wenger?’ ‘Will they win trophies again?’ ‘Can Arsenal finally contend?’ ‘Will Arsenal flash the cash?” These questions would have to be answered straight away if Wenger was to be given his p45 but Wenger’s wallet is full of cash only he doesn’t spend heavily.
On transfers, Wenger has a fixed stance on the issue. He says, “I prefer a product that you can work on, improve on and test not a product that is finished already. They are younger meaning they will last longer at the club.”
With that in mind, the ongoing Suarez saga seems to contradict what he says, but maybe Wenger has finally noticed that finished products are finishing off the job.
Take Robin van Persie for example, bargain for £20m and basically won Manchester United their 20th title. He scored many goals and became indispensable to the club.
However, sometimes it does work; growing the player and moulding their career. Wayne Rooney was a prime example; he was at Everton as a teenager and was inexperienced and Manchester United bought him at a hefty price and it paid off, he proved to be vital parts of the team in the club’s successes, especially the Premier League.
So, growing impatience begins to grow at the club but that is half of the battle. Andre Villas-Boas is beginning to build a very strong team and Tottenham can finally challenge not only for the coveted European places, but for actual trophies and silverware. The competition has never been so strong for Arsenal to maintain their pride of always qualifying for the Champions League and winning vital games.
With the fans beginning to turn against him, even in friendlies, time begins to turn against Wenger and the constant hunger for trophies will begin to hurt the stomach of Arsenal even more. With his days numbered, Wenger can’t rely on the 4th place safety net, he has to go all out or he will be driving away from North London.
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