Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is optimistic that his side can still finish second in the Premier League. The Gunners are currently fifth in the league with 47 points, one point behind fourth placed Tottenham who have a game in hand.
Only few days back the atmosphere at North London was gloomy and even hostile. Arsenal were eliminated from the FA Cup and humiliated at home by Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Fans called for Wenger’s head and really it reached a nadir of pessimism.
On Saturday, Arsenal registered their third straight league victory, when they defeated a struggling Aston Villa side 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium, following victories against Stoke City and Sunderland.
Chelsea interim manager Rafael Benitez insisted that the Blues are aiming for top two finish, but their spirits were dampened after losing out to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
However, Wenger feels not only his side is capable of leapfrogging Spurs but could chase for the second place as well. He was quoted on BBC:
“I’m not sure it will only be a fight with Tottenham. I’m not sure the other places are not reachable.
“Chelsea are just ahead and even Manchester City is not out of reach. It could be a tight fight until the end.”
While Wenger has every right to say such things to spur his team for the coming matches but how realistic are his claims here?
Manchester City are 12 points behind leaders Manchester United and people have not given much hope to them. So, why can’t Arsenal have their hopes here?
The argument can be refuted easily as City have only United to chase in the title race. In case of Arsenal, they have to fight against two more teams to reach there, which realistically is more than just tough.
Further, they are also chased down by teams like Everton and Liverpool for fourth place and both the teams could pounce on any opportunities if they slip up.
Arsenal have never finished outside of top four under Arsene Wenger but also they haven’t finished second in the league for eight years running.
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