Arsenal’s season ultimately ended in disappointment as they blew the chance to secure a top-four finish with damaging defeats to Tottenham and Newcastle in the final two weeks of the campaign.
After a summer of heavy recruitment, the Gunners had not been fancied to compete for the Champions League - especially not after starting the season with three straight league defeats.
What followed has proven something of a rollercoaster.
Here, Standard Sport assesses the 2021-22 season at Emirates Stadium…
The season in one word: Progress
It might not be the overriding feeling right now, but in so many aspects both on and off the pitch the Gunners have made major strides.
Star of the show: Bukayo Saka
It just couldn’t be anyone else. A 20-year-old talisman who has shouldered that burden brilliantly.
Honourable mention for Martin Odegaard, who hasn’t had the wider recognition his displays deserve.
Biggest let down: The January transfer window
Failure to bolster a thin squad while letting so many players leave is what ultimately cost the Gunners in the final weeks of the season.
Most improved player: Aaron Ramsdale
Few saw him at Bournemouth or Sheffield United and fancied him as an Arsenal No1 but he has proven us all emphatically wrong.
Game to remember: Arsenal 3-1 Tottenham (26/9/21)
One of the best atmospheres ever seen at the Emirates, a glorious day with local lads Saka and Emile Smith Rowe on the scoresheet.
Game to forget: Crystal Palace 3-0 Arsenal (4/4/22)
Tempting to just go with the reverse fixture at Spurs, but the defeat at Selhurst Park started a dismal run of three defeats and was the night they lost Thomas Partey for the season, too.
Rising star: Emile Smith Rowe
This could be Saka as well but I’ll share things out and say Smith Rowe, who kicked on again and made his England debut.
Manager verdict
It’s not been plain sailing but “Super Mick Arteta” has gradually won over the majority of fans.
Like his team, he is prone to errors of inexperience but there is clearly something building under his leadership.
Fans’ mood
Right now, disappointment at a late top-four implosion but in general there’s a sense of pride restored in a likeable young team. Watching football at the Emirates is a more enjoyable experience than it has been in years.
Grade: B-
If a Champions League return would have merited an A, then finishing just shy of that after an unexpected challenge comes in a grade lower.
