After an infuriating 1-1 scoreline in the first game at the Emirates in a game we dominated, the Gunners came good in the second leg, maintaining a clean sheet while blitzing the hosts in the first half to kill the tie. Everyone did their job, especially the front four. Now it's two dates with Unai Emery's Villareal, who dispatched Zagreb 3-1 on aggregate. If we can get by them, it'll probably be Man U in the final (though Roma is strong). Hey, why not?
Well, losing to Liverpool 3-0 may be why not. And going down 3-0 to West Ham. These are two of the teams we had to overtake for a European spot, and one point out of six was a crusher. Now we pretty much have to win out for a legitimate shot at a Europa League berth, though perhaps 16 points out of the 21 on offer could be enough if we get a lot of help.
I remain hopeful for the future. If we can find a way to ditch Willian at an airport somewhere, it would be good. There are possibilities all around. Saliba needs to be motivated, and if he is as good as we thought he was, we don't need Luiz. I'm surprised at how well Chambers is doing at right back. The loss of Tierney is a blow, but he will be back next year. ESR, if he stays healthy, is our #10. Forget Odegard; we can't afford him. Saka can play there too. I wouldn't like to lose Laca, but maybe we should sell. Willock and AMN could bring in some cash too. Nketiah could also be on the block; the young guns we're making room for are Balogun and Martinelli.
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