Can Arsenal be Premier League contenders again?
Former Arsenal striker Robin van Persie has claimed Unai Emery’s side could soon challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title.
You have to go as far back as 2004 to see Arsenal’s last Premier League title.
While there have been some impressive seasons since then, none have resulted in English top flight triumph.
Since their last title, the Gunners have been on a slippery slope too.
Arsene Wenger lost the fans a couple of seasons ago following several disappointing campaigns and was replaced by Unai Emery last summer.
While there has been some progression, a Premier League title push still alludes them.
Arsenal eventually finished fifth in the recently concluded domestic campaign.
Though, despite that, Robin van Persie believes Arsenal are capable of pushing for a Premier League trophy.
VALENCIA, SPAIN – MAY 09: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Arsenal (R) celebrates after scoring his team’s first goal with teammate Alexandre Lacazette during the UEFA Europa League Semi Final Second Leg match between Valencia and Arsenal at Estadio Mestalla on May 09, 2019 in Valencia, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
“They’re close already, they’ve been close for so many years”
Speaking to the BBC, Van Persie claimed that Arsenal have been close to challenging for the title for ‘so many years’ and are still capable.
When asked about whether Arsenal could challenge for the title again, Van Persie was adamant the Gunners can mount a push.
Though, Arsenal’s fate may rest in Pep Guardiola’s hands.
“Of course they can, yes, because they’re close already, they’ve been close for so many years,” he explained.
“It goes in periods. Now you have Manchester City, who are doing unbelievable. To win back-to-back titles is very special – that shows, really, that you’re a proper team.
“But it goes in phases. Maybe [City manager] Pep Guardiola will leave next year and that does something to a club. Maybe Liverpool will take over and they will dominate for the next few years. But I hope and wish Arsenal all the best to win the title. I know how difficult it is.”