Arsenal fans are preparing for a return to European action when they face FC Zurich in their Europa League opener on Thursday night. After a year without any European commitments, the Gunners kick off their campaign in Switzerland in a competition in which they are viewed as the favourites to win the whole thing.
Competing in the Europa League represents a progression from where Arsenal was last season. Still, the goal for Mikel Arteta is for his side to play Champions League football - something they haven't done since the 2016/17 campaign. The Gunners had a Champions League spot in their grasp last season, but they let it slip, allowing Tottenham to nose ahead of them at the last minute to clinch fourth spot.
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On Wednesday night, Arsenal fans were made to watch on as Spurs played their first Champions League game of the season up the road at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Lilywhites beat a Marseille side featuring Matteo Guendouzi and Nuno Tavares 2-0, thanks to a late brace from Richarlison.
During the game, Spurs supporters could be heard chanting: "Are you watching, Arsenal?" as they reminded their North London rivals of what they're missing out on. Champions League football evaded Arsenal by just two points in the Premier League table last season, and they'll be keen to set the record straight this term.
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