Arsenal’s recent draw with Crystal Palace has left Mikel Arteta in a frustrated state, according to Jamie Carragher.
The Gunners were held to a 2-2 draw, despite taking the lead twice in the match.
Goals from Jakub Kiwior and Leandro Trossard put Arsenal ahead, but Crystal Palace fought back, with Eberechi Eze’s stunning volley and Jean-Philippe Mateta’s late strike from a William Saliba mistake leveling the score.
A Blow to Arsenal’s Champions League Hopes
This latest setback means Arsenal are still not officially guaranteed a spot in next season’s Champions League.
Though they sit comfortably 10 points ahead of sixth-place Chelsea, having played one more game, they’ve drawn three of their last four Premier League matches.
Arteta’s side will need to secure their spot as soon as possible, especially with the Champions League semi-finals against PSG approaching.
Carragher’s Take on Arsenal’s Situation
Carragher has suggested that Arteta will be disappointed his team hasn’t locked in their Champions League qualification yet.
Had they won against Crystal Palace, they could have eased off in their next match against Bournemouth, saving key players for the PSG clash.
Now, Carragher feels Arteta is left with fewer options.
“I think Arteta will be furious,” Carragher said on Sky Sports.
“They’ll qualify for the Champions League eventually, but you want to do it as soon as possible.
If they’d won, they could’ve rested players for the PSG game, but now that’s not an option with Liverpool coming up after that.”
The Road Ahead: High Stakes for Arsenal
Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures only add more pressure to their situation.
After facing PSG in the Champions League next Tuesday at the Emirates, Arsenal will welcome Bournemouth over the weekend.
Just four days later, they’ll face PSG again in the second leg.
The Premier League matches that follow will be just as challenging, with Arsenal traveling to Anfield to face Liverpool on May 11, then hosting Newcastle on May 18.
Their final game will be away at relegated Southampton on May 25, and every match will be crucial as Arteta looks to seal Champions League football for next season.
What’s next for Arsenal? They will need to regroup and keep fighting if they want to ensure their place in Europe’s top competition.