Arsenal were knocked out of the Europa League four weeks ago, falling to Sporting CP on penalties after drawing 3-3 on aggregate.
Plenty of supporters voiced their frustrations considering the north London outfit haven't lifted a European trophy since winning the European Super Cup in 1994. However, the Gunners getting eliminated from the competition looks a lot like a blessing in disguise for their ongoing Premier League title challenge, especially when you look at what happened to Manchester United last night.
Erik ten Hag's men drew 2-2 with Sevilla, losing centre-backs Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez to injury in the second half, with the latter's issue appearing to be serious at the time. Similarly, Mikel Arteta lost right-back Takehiro Tomiyasu and centre-half William Saliba to injury during the second leg of his side's aforementioned loss to Sporting.
READ MORE: Thierry Henry names the best left-winger in the world with Gabriel Martinelli Arsenal admission
Tomiyasu has since been ruled out for the season and Saliba is yet to return, illustrating just how demanding the turnaround is when you are involved in Europe and a title challenge. Arsenal are now just six points clear of second-placed Manchester City and the reigning champions also possess a game in hand on their title rivals, who they will welcome to the Etihad Stadium in what promises to be a mouth-watering match for neutrals later this month.
But first the Gunners take on West Ham United at the London Stadium on Sunday afternoon before welcoming Southampton to the Emirates Stadium on Friday evening.
READ NEXT:
Arsenal suffer blow in Jude Bellingham race as Edu transfer policy renders deal unlikely
Why Arsenal haven't missed William Saliba as Frenchman faces race to be fit for West Ham
FA make decision on linesman after Andy Robertson 'elbow' in Liverpool vs Arsenal
Why so many want Arsenal to bottle their Premier League title challenge with Man City
Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: All the latest news, views and rumours from the Emirates Stadium
