"We can’t deny it" - Jamie Carragher claims Arsenal 'blew' chance to become PL champions following 'massive drop off' in the second half of season
Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher recently claimed that Arsenal blew their chances of becoming Premier League champions this season. Their 1-0 loss against Nottingham Forest yesterday (May 20) ensured Manchester City were crowned champions. He also issued a stark warning to the Gunners, questioning when they would challenge for the title again.
Arsenal were looking to win their first Premier League title in 19 years this season under Mikel Arteta. They had a promising first half of the season and were leading the table for an astonishing 248 days.
However, their form faltered during the final stretch of the campaign. The Gunners were defeated by Manchester City, Brighton, and Nottingham, as well as drawing against the likes of Liverpool, Southampton, and West Ham. This ensured Manchester City were declared champions for the fifth time in six seasons.
After the Gunners blew their chances of becoming champions last night, Jamie Carragher questioned if they would be able to challenge again. He spoke to Sky Sports (via METRO):
"But the biggest disappointment will be the fact that the second half of the season it’s been a massive drop off. We can’t deny that."
"I do have to go back and think how often will Arsenal be in a position where they’re eight points clear with 10 games to go. It was an amazing position and they did blow it, we can’t deny it.
"They’ve had an amazing season but if they’re in that position next season I’d be very surprised, ahead of a quality of team like Man City."
He added:
"Arsenal have been brilliant and what would the Premier League have been this season without them? They’ve given us a fight, a chase and unfortunately for them it’s petered out."
The Gunners' final fixture will be against Wolverhampton Wanderers at home on May 28.
Gent star admits he would snub Arsenal to join Manchester United
Gent forward Gift Orban admitted he would prefer to join Manchester United, Manchester City, or Liverpool over the Gunners.
The Nigerian forward has caught the eye of various clubs after his performances this season. He has scored 20 goals and provided two assists in 20 games in all competitions this season.
Orban spoke of his aspirations to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste. He said (via Manchester Evening News):
The Premier League is my ultimate dream: Manchester United, Liverpool or Manchester City. I don’t really like Arsenal that much – it’s like they don’t want to win titles. They play and sell players – that’s it. I want to go somewhere where they win prizes."
His reasoning would definitely not sit well with the Gunners. However, from a footballing perspective, what he said wasn't factually correct. Arsenal made a valiant effort, pushing Manchester City for the title for nearly the entire season. It will be interesting to see how Mikel Arteta's side recoup for next season to challenge again.