“The grass isn’t always greener” – Former Arsenal star on Mikel Arteta’s future | OneFootball

Exclusive: Former Arsenal Star Sends Message to Fans Over Mikel Arteta Criticism

At one point this season, Arsenal were in contention to achieve something that no English club ever has. A quadruple. 

At the very least, they were coasting their way towards their first Premier League title in 22 years. A few weeks ago, Arsenal had the chance to move 12 points clear of title rivals Manchester City, as they head into the final straight of the season.

However, a shock home defeat to AFC Bournemouth, sandwiched by crushing domestic defeats to Southampton and Manchester City, has left them on thin ice.

Last week’s 1-0 win over Newcastle United has steadied the ship, but the title race is set to go right down to the wire with just four games remaining. Some Arsenal supporters have taken aim at head coach Mikel Arteta, who hasn’t won a trophy since the FA Cup triumph six years ago.

Former Arsenal star Jermaine Pennant, speaking exclusively to EPL Index, shared his thoughts on Arteta’s future and whether another trophyless season could be the end of his reign…

Pennant: Arsenal to back Arteta

“I think Arsenal will stick with Arteta,” began Pennant, “Because from where he has taken them from, it’s night and day.”

“At one point there was a conversation that they could win the quadruple!” said Pennant, “Even if it does go down to the wire in the Premier League, it’s still progress.”

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It’s hard to deny that Arsenal are getting closer to a major trophy. However, for some fans close isn’t good enough, especially with the players at Arteta’s disposal.

“It would be the right decision”

“I think that it would be the right decision [to stick with Arteta]. You have to give him another year and see if he can win it,” said Pennant.

“If not, then you have to have a look at who else is out there. But there’s no point in sacking him for someone not as good, or on par, with Arteta. The grass isn’t always greener.”

There’s a severe lack of elite managers in Europe at the moment, which could contribute to any decision regarding Arteta’s future. 

You just need to look at clubs like Chelsea and Manchester United, who will be scrambling around for a new manager this summer. 

Whilst the Premier League title is hanging by a thread, Arsenal’s performances in Europe have improved massively.

They reached the semi-finals of the Champions League last year and were beaten by the winners PSG.

Arsenal are now just one game away from reaching a Champions League final after securing a 1-1 away draw at Atletico Madrid this week. They would face either PSG or Bayern Munich in the final.

There’s a long way to go in this season yet…