‘Arsenal could win the Premier League next season if they fail to qualify for the Champions League’, says former captain William Gallas

Missing out on Champions League football next season could be a blessing in disguise for Arsenal, according to former Gunners captain William Gallas.

Arsene Wenger’s side have floundered in the league lately and lie in sixth, two points behind Manchester United in fifth and six points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.

A run of four defeats in their last five league games has heightened discontent around the Emirates Stadium, as the manager’s future remains unclear, and there is a real danger Wenger’s proud Champions League qualification record could end this season.

However, speaking to the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast, former Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham defender Gallas thinks missing out on European competition could work to the Gunners advantage.  

“If they are not qualified for the Champions League next season it would be one less competition for them and look what Chelsea are doing at the moment,” said the ex-France international.

“They don’t play in the Champions League, they are top of the Premier League and everything is perfect for them.  

“So if Arsenal don’t play in the Champions League next season maybe they can win the Premier League.

“At the beginning the target for Arsenal was to win the Premier League or to finish in the top four.

“But at the moment they are struggling, and I think it will be very difficult for them to finish in the top four, but you never know in football.

“If they don’t qualify for the Champions League maybe it will be good for them for next season.”

With the long-serving Wenger’s future at Arsenal still far from certain, Gallas has called on the board and manager to decide on their future plans.

He also highlighted the importance of bringing in quality players if Arsenal are to make a push for the league title soon.  

“What they have to do, the board and Arsene, they have to talk together and see what they’re going to do for the next season,” he added.

“The thing is, now in football, you have to spend a lot of money on players because if you don’t have the experienced players or the top players in your club it is difficult for you to win the Premier League.”

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