Arsenal transfer news

ARSENAL got back to winning ways with a 3-1 victory to relegate West Brom.Off the pitch, Daniel Ek and his consortium have held a meeting with the Arsenal Supporters Trust as the Spotify founder steps up his takeover bid.
However, the Kroenke family are reportedly planning a huge summer of spending on transfers as they look to get angry Gunners fans on side.
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Stay up to date with every twist and turn from North London in our live blog…
TOP GUNNER
Bukayo Saka was Arsenal’s ‘best player by a mile’ in Sunday’s win over West Brom, according to Joe Cole.
The versatile England ace, 20, was moved to left-back for the visit of the Baggies on Sunday evening having spent much of the season in a more attacking role.
And Saka put in another supreme performance, including an assist for the first goal, as Arsenal eventually edged past West Brom 3-1.
The winger will now be hoping to end the season strongly as he aims to cement his spot in Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions squad for this summer’s delayed European Championship.
Saka’s strong showing at the Emirates won’t have hurt his chances either, with ex-England midfielder Cole raving about him. After the game, Cole told BT Sport: “[Saka] was excellent.
“He was a thorn in [West Brom’s] side. His movement was fantastic. He’s so direct, he drives into areas and picks passes out all the time. He was Arsenal’s best player by a mile.”

STAT ATTACK
Arsenal’s seven shots on target tonight is the second-most they’ve managed in a Premier League match this season.
The most? The 12 they registered in the 4-0 win at West Brom in January.
They’re going to miss playing them.

FT: ARSENAL 3-1 WEST BROM
West Brom are beaten in London, and their immediate return to the Championship is confirmed.
Albion gave it a go in the second half, and Matheus Pereira halved the half-time deficit with a superb solo goal, but Willian’s free-kick in the final minute – his first Arsenal goal – condemned the Baggies to the drop.

Defeat in the capital confirms our relegation from the Premier League.#ARSWBA | @eToro— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) May 9, 2021

ARSENAL 3-1 WBA
90. He’s done it! Willian has his first goal in an Arsenal shirt!
The Brazilian won the free-kick with that burst of pace and piece of trickery, and made it clear that he wanted to take it too. For once, he didn’t disappoint.
Central and 25 yards from goal, the forward curled a beauty over the wall and into the top left corner beyond Sam Johnstone.
ARSENAL 2-1 WBA
67. Against the run of play, Mattheus Pereira pulls one back for West Brom in sensational style.
The Albion forward picks the ball up inside his own half, and runs and runs and runs and runs without challenge.
When an Arsenal player finally approaches the forward, he unleashes a peach of a low, left-footed drive into the bottom corner past the outstretched arm of Bernd Leno.
Maybe West Brom are still alive in the Premier League.
SOU-PER MAN
Yves Bissouma has reportedly requested to leave Brighton at the end of the season – amid intense interest from Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester City.
Bissouma joined the Seagulls from Lille in 2018 for a fee that could rise to £15.7million with add-ons. The 24-year-old has shone bright this season proving he is one of the Premier League’s most talented box-to-box midfielders.
The Mali international’s impressive performances at the Amex Stadium have caught the eye of Arsenal, Liverpool and City. According to the Sunday Times, Bissouma has asked to be allowed to leave Brighton, who rate him at £40m.
That development paves the way for an intense bidding war between three of the Premier League’s biggest clubs.
Liverpool are reportedly most interested in the midfielder as manager Jurgen Klopp has been ‘personally researching’ his character as well as off-field behaviour to make sure he is the right fit for the Reds.
In fact, Klopp sees him as a potential successor to Georginio Wijnaldum, who looks set to exit Anfield on a free transfer once his contract expires in June.

HT: ARSENAL 2-0 WEST BROM
Arsenal lead by two at the break courtesy of Emile Smith Rowe’s first Premier League goal and a thunderbolt from Nicolas Pepe.
The Gunners have grown to impress, but the match perhaps sums up West Brom’s season.
Albion started well, spurned some chances, and then fell apart. In 45 minutes, they will be relegated unless they can find a way back into this one.
Two goals to the good 👊#ARSWBA 🔴⚪️ 2-0 🟡🟢 (HT)— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 9, 2021

ARSENAL 2-0 WBA
35. Brilliant from Nicolas Pepe!
The Ivorian takes Callum Chambers’ pass in his path on the left, and when nobody comes to challenge him, he skips inside on to his left foot and powers a shot into the far corner from just inside the box.
Superb stuff from Arsenal’s record signing, but again it’s dubious defending from Albion.
ARSENAL 1-0 WBA
29. A first Premier League goal for Emile Smith Rowe!
Arsenal had just begun to turn the screw, and have their youngsters to thank for breaking the deadlock.
Bukaya Sako again gets beyond a this-time static Albion defence, and pulls a lovely low cross back for Smith Rowe to meet at the near post with a left-footed volley.
KICK-OFF!
Arsenal 0 – 0 West Brom
The teams are off and underway at the Emirates.
To follow our LIVE match blog for kick-by-kick action click HERE.
GUNNERS GET READY
The players are out and warming up ahead of Arsenal’s 7pm kick-off against West Brom.
Mikel Arteta’s side need a win to keep their European hopes alive while the Baggies must win if they are to stand any chance of staying up.
🔜 #ARSWBA at the EmiratesAll the build-up to kick-off 👇— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 9, 2021

TEAM NEWS IS IN!
Here’s how the teams line-up for Arsenal vs West Brom at the Emirates tonight.
7pm kick-off.
🚨 Six changes from midweek➡️ Chambers, Gabriel, Ceballos, Elneny, Willian, Martinelli⬅️ Bellerin, Mari, Tierney, Partey, Odegaard, Aubameyang#ARSWBA— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 9, 2021

📋 Team news is in at the Emirates Stadium. Phillips and Robinson come into our starting XI.@MonsterEnergy | #ARSWBA— West Bromwich Albion (@WBA) May 9, 2021

ARSENAL IN DA HOUSE
The Gunners have arrived at the Emirates ahead of tonight’s game against West Brom.
Kick-off at 7pm in North London.

DOWN THE STAN 
Stan Kroenke’s offer to pay their Uefa fine from his own pocket could leave Arsenal with LESS money to spend this summer.
Kroenke, along with his fellow American owners at Liverpool and Manchester United, promised to meet the initial £1.44million European Super League fine – plus five per cent of the club’s next season of European cash earnings – from his personal funds.
But finance specialists warned such payments would be deemed as “owner funding” in Financial Fair Play calculations.
One expert explained: “If Kroenke pays from his own funds, that is deemed an owner expense.
“It means Arsenal’s next income will be reduced and will have an impact on the amount they are allowed to spend on players.
“While the Arsenal fans may be welcoming his decision now, they might not be so impressed if they discover they will have less to spend on players as a direct result.”

CHEERS TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Arsenal Women secured Champions League football for next season with a 0-0 draw against WSL strugglers Aston Villa this afternoon.
The North Londoners ended up third in the WSL behind second placed Man City and champions Chelsea who retained the title.

SAKA’S BEAUTY
The last time Arsenal faced West Brom they hammered them 4-0 at the Hawthorns.
The match is fondly remembered for this beautiful move from the Gunners, finished off by Bukayo Saka.

ERGING FOR ACTION
Arsenal will have to cough up £35million for Sheffield United ace Sander Berge as manager Mikel Arteta calls on the board to splash the cash this summer.
The Gunners have endured yet another torrid season that could see them missing out on European qualification for the first time in 25 years following Thursday’s Europa League elimination to Unai Emery’s Villarreal.
Arteta is looking to bolster his midfield ahead of next season and Berge appears to be among his top summer targets, even though the Norway international endured a rough campaign marred by injury.
According to Yorkshire Live, Berge is rated at a cut-price £35m due to a relegation clause in his contract with the Blades who will playing in the Championship next season, dropping his original asking price of £45m.
This comes after the north Londoners’ manager urged the club’s hierarchy to spend big in the summer in order to put an end to the ongoing downward spiral.
Credit: AP
TOFFEE TWOSOME
Everton are lining up moves for Juventus keeper Wojciech Szczesny and Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, according to reports.
Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti is almost certainly set to try and bolster his squad in the summer.
And according to Calcio Mercato, Juventus are hoping to offload 31-year-old Szczesny.
Everton are one of the clubs that have been linked with the Pole, who spent six years at Arsenal between 2009 and 2015.
Chelsea are also said to be a possible suitor for the ex-Gunners shot-stopper despite already having both Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga on their books.
Another player who Everton are looking at according to The Mirror is Fulham midfielder Anguissa.
The Cameroon international has been ever-present for Scott Parker’s side this season, playing in 30 of their 34 Premier League games.
ARSENAL TEAM NEWS
The team news for Arsenal’s final WSL match against Aston Villa is in.
Kick-off is at 2:30pm.

BISSOUMA HANDS IN REQUEST
Brighton’s Yves Bissouma has handed in a transfer request, according to the Sunday Times.
The midfielder, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, has been in excellent form this season – making 32 Premier League appearances.
The 24-year-old is believed to be keen on playing Champions League football, which may hamper Arsenal’s chances.
He is expected to cost around £30million.

PAUL ONUACHU LATEST
Genk’s goal machine Paul Onuachu reportedly hopes to end up an Arsenal player by the end of the summer.
The 6ft 7in forward has been a revelation at the Belgian club, smashing home an incredible 32 goals in 37 games in all competitions this season.
Voetbal Belgie reports the 26-year-old is eyeing up a move to the Emirates and is optimistic he could land a dream Prem move by the end of the upcoming transfer window.
The Nigerian forward is contracted until 2024 and is believed to have a market value of around £15million.
Genk are hoping to cash in around £25m for his services after his sensational goalscoring form.
JILL ROORD LATEST
Jill Roord is being heavily linked with a summer move to Wolfsburg from Arsenal.
The German outfit are thought to be keen on adding the Netherlands midfielder to their ranks and have refused to rule out a move for her, according to Sports Buzzer.
When asked about Roord the club’s sporting director Ralf Kellermann remained tight-lipped.
He said: “We will not comment on transfer rumors in the week before the important game against Bayern.”
Wolfsburg are looking to strengthen their squad after being knocked out of the Women’s Champions League by Chelsea in the contest’s quarter-finals.
The two clubs have done business previously with the Gunners selling Dominique Janssen to Wolfsburg in 2019.
ACHRAF HAKIMI LATEST
Bayern Munich are reportedly ready to join the race for Achraf Hakimi amid interest from Arsenal.
The right-back, 22, has been a key part of Inter Milan’s Serie A title triumph but could still leave the club.
Arsenal and Chelsea had both been credited with interest in recent months.
In particular, the Gunners may be seeking a replacement for Hector Bellerin amid reports linking him with Paris Saint-Germain.
But Bundesliga giants Bayern are also on the lookout ahead of Julian Nagelsmann’s arrival.
According to German football reporter Manuel Bonke, the Bavarians are targeting Hakimi although the transfer fee could be a big stumbling block.
The defender is seen as someone who would fit the incoming coach’s system perfectly, with current starter Benjamin Pavard a more defensive right-back.
KT IS BACK
Kieran Tierney is likely to start for the Gunners against West Brom today.
The last time he played against the Baggies was when Arsenal hammered them 4-0 at the Hawthorns in January.
That match is remembered for this superb strike from Tierney – and Mikel Arteta, desperate to finish the season strongly, will be hoping for another masterclass today.

ICYMI – DWIGHT FIGHT
Aston Villa are ready to launch a £15million bid for Burnley ace Dwight McNeil, according to reports.
The talented winger has been admired by Manchester United and Arsenal in the past.
But Dean Smith wants to take him to the West Midlands.
According to Football Insider, McNeil is one of Villa’s ‘top targets’ for the summer.
And they think that £15m could be enough to convince Burnley to sell.
The Clarets, however, agreed a contract extension with McNeil last October, currently tying him to Sean Dyche’s side until June 2024.
And Burnley are believed to have an option to trigger an extra year.
Credit: AP
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ARSENAL again fans protested against their ownership outside the Emirates before the Villarreal draw which dumped them out of Europe.On the pitch, a goalless draw was enough to see former boss Unai Emery knock the Gunners out and progress to the Europa League semi-final.
Meanwhile, Daniel Ek and his consortium have held a meeting with the Arsenal Supporters Trust as the Spotify founder steps up his takeover bid.
However, the Kroenke family are reportedly planning a huge summer of spending on transfers as they look to get angry Gunners fans on side.
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Stay up to date with every twist and turn from North London in our live blog…
CHEERS TO THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Arsenal Women secured Champions League football for next season with a 0-0 draw against WSL strugglers Aston Villa this afternoon.
The North Londoners ended up third in the WSL behind second placed Man City and champions Chelsea who retained the title.

SAKA’S BEAUTY
The last time Arsenal faced West Brom they hammered them 4-0 at the Hawthorns.
The match is fondly remembered for this beautiful move from the Gunners, finished off by Bukayo Saka.

ERGING FOR ACTION
Arsenal will have to cough up £35million for Sheffield United ace Sander Berge as manager Mikel Arteta calls on the board to splash the cash this summer.
The Gunners have endured yet another torrid season that could see them missing out on European qualification for the first time in 25 years following Thursday’s Europa League elimination to Unai Emery’s Villarreal.
Arteta is looking to bolster his midfield ahead of next season and Berge appears to be among his top summer targets, even though the Norway international endured a rough campaign marred by injury.
According to Yorkshire Live, Berge is rated at a cut-price £35m due to a relegation clause in his contract with the Blades who will playing in the Championship next season, dropping his original asking price of £45m.
This comes after the north Londoners’ manager urged the club’s hierarchy to spend big in the summer in order to put an end to the ongoing downward spiral.
Credit: AP
TOFFEE TWOSOME
Everton are lining up moves for Juventus keeper Wojciech Szczesny and Fulham midfielder Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa, according to reports.
Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti is almost certainly set to try and bolster his squad in the summer.
And according to Calcio Mercato, Juventus are hoping to offload 31-year-old Szczesny.
Everton are one of the clubs that have been linked with the Pole, who spent six years at Arsenal between 2009 and 2015.
Chelsea are also said to be a possible suitor for the ex-Gunners shot-stopper despite already having both Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga on their books.
Another player who Everton are looking at according to The Mirror is Fulham midfielder Anguissa.
The Cameroon international has been ever-present for Scott Parker’s side this season, playing in 30 of their 34 Premier League games.
ARSENAL TEAM NEWS
The team news for Arsenal’s final WSL match against Aston Villa is in.
Kick-off is at 2:30pm.

BISSOUMA HANDS IN REQUEST
Brighton’s Yves Bissouma has handed in a transfer request, according to the Sunday Times.
The midfielder, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, has been in excellent form this season – making 32 Premier League appearances.
The 24-year-old is believed to be keen on playing Champions League football, which may hamper Arsenal’s chances.
He is expected to cost around £30million.

PAUL ONUACHU LATEST
Genk’s goal machine Paul Onuachu reportedly hopes to end up an Arsenal player by the end of the summer.
The 6ft 7in forward has been a revelation at the Belgian club, smashing home an incredible 32 goals in 37 games in all competitions this season.
Voetbal Belgie reports the 26-year-old is eyeing up a move to the Emirates and is optimistic he could land a dream Prem move by the end of the upcoming transfer window.
The Nigerian forward is contracted until 2024 and is believed to have a market value of around £15million.
Genk are hoping to cash in around £25m for his services after his sensational goalscoring form.
JILL ROORD LATEST
Jill Roord is being heavily linked with a summer move to Wolfsburg from Arsenal.
The German outfit are thought to be keen on adding the Netherlands midfielder to their ranks and have refused to rule out a move for her, according to Sports Buzzer.
When asked about Roord the club’s sporting director Ralf Kellermann remained tight-lipped.
He said: “We will not comment on transfer rumors in the week before the important game against Bayern.”
Wolfsburg are looking to strengthen their squad after being knocked out of the Women’s Champions League by Chelsea in the contest’s quarter-finals.
The two clubs have done business previously with the Gunners selling Dominique Janssen to Wolfsburg in 2019.
ACHRAF HAKIMI LATEST
Bayern Munich are reportedly ready to join the race for Achraf Hakimi amid interest from Arsenal.
The right-back, 22, has been a key part of Inter Milan’s Serie A title triumph but could still leave the club.
Arsenal and Chelsea had both been credited with interest in recent months.
In particular, the Gunners may be seeking a replacement for Hector Bellerin amid reports linking him with Paris Saint-Germain.
But Bundesliga giants Bayern are also on the lookout ahead of Julian Nagelsmann’s arrival.
According to German football reporter Manuel Bonke, the Bavarians are targeting Hakimi although the transfer fee could be a big stumbling block.
The defender is seen as someone who would fit the incoming coach’s system perfectly, with current starter Benjamin Pavard a more defensive right-back.
DOWN THE STAN 
Stan Kroenke’s offer to pay their Uefa fine from his own pocket could leave Arsenal with LESS money to spend this summer.
Kroenke, along with his fellow American owners at Liverpool and Manchester United, promised to meet the initial £1.44million European Super League fine – plus five per cent of the club’s next season of European cash earnings – from his personal funds.
But finance specialists warned such payments would be deemed as “owner funding” in Financial Fair Play calculations.
One expert explained: “If Kroenke pays from his own funds, that is deemed an owner expense.
“It means Arsenal’s next income will be reduced and will have an impact on the amount they are allowed to spend on players.
“While the Arsenal fans may be welcoming his decision now, they might not be so impressed if they discover they will have less to spend on players as a direct result.”

KT IS BACK
Kieran Tierney is likely to start for the Gunners against West Brom today.
The last time he played against the Baggies was when Arsenal hammered them 4-0 at the Hawthorns in January.
That match is remembered for this superb strike from Tierney – and Mikel Arteta, desperate to finish the season strongly, will be hoping for another masterclass today.

ICYMI – DWIGHT FIGHT
Aston Villa are ready to launch a £15million bid for Burnley ace Dwight McNeil, according to reports.
The talented winger has been admired by Manchester United and Arsenal in the past.
But Dean Smith wants to take him to the West Midlands.
According to Football Insider, McNeil is one of Villa’s ‘top targets’ for the summer.
And they think that £15m could be enough to convince Burnley to sell.
The Clarets, however, agreed a contract extension with McNeil last October, currently tying him to Sean Dyche’s side until June 2024.
And Burnley are believed to have an option to trigger an extra year.
Credit: AP
TOP FOUR HOPES (OFFICIALLY) OVER
Arsenal’s extremely slim hopes of finishing in the top four this season are officially over following Chelsea’s 2-1 victory at Manchester City.
The result leaves them 14 points behind Leicester City with four games to go.
There’s always next year…
Count Binface has finished ninth. Arsenal are currently 10th.— Richard Jolly (@RichJolly) May 8, 2021

MCCABE ON NEW DEAL
Arsenal forward Katie McCabe has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
The Republic of Ireland captain has been in good form this season, scoring four and setting up 12.
Discussing her new deal, McCabe said: “I’m absolutely delighted.
“I love this club and I feel like we’re in a really good place and that we’re ready to push on now.
“I’m delighted it got done and now I’m ready to kick on and help this club win more trophies.
“It’s been amazing ever since I came over, it’s been such a massive part of my life.
“There’s been ups and downs along the way, but I feel like I’m in a really good place now with the team that we’ve got, the players we’ve got and all the staff we have behind the scenes.
“I’m really, really happy to be here and to commit my future.”
INJURY UPDATE
The Gunners have confirmed David Luiz, Granit Xhaka and Pablo Mari will miss today’s match against West Brom.
Luiz sustained a hamstring injury against Newcastle in Arsenal’s last Premier League match and will continue his rehab next week.
Whether the Brazilian will play again this season – or indeed for the club due to his expiring contract – is unknown.
Xhaka has suffered a groin strain and will continue to be assessed over the coming days.
Mari sprained an ankle during Thursday’s Europa League defeat to Villarreal and is aiming to rejoin training next week.
MORNING ARSENAL FANS
Arsenal take on lowly West Brom at Emirates Stadium this evening looking to lift the gloom that has hung over the club since Thursday’s Europa League exit at the hands of former manager Unai Emery’s Villarreal.
And in his programme notes for the match, skipper Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has apologised to supporters for his side’s poor performance.
The striker, 31, wrote: “I thought my header was in when it hit the post but it just wasn’t going to happen.
“Like I said, we are really upset about going out of the competition at this stage, for ourselves, for the club and most of all for you the supporters.
“It’s been such a difficult season for fans and we desperately wanted to give you something positive this season – I’m just so sorry we couldn’t do it for you.”
Gunners fans have protested outside the Emirates before their last two home games.
And club insiders are fearful of provoking more fury with a latest blow.
SunSport exclusively revealed last night that teenage prodigy Kido Taylor-Hart is considering walking away for nothing at the end of the season.
And club insiders fear that losing a prominent youngster could further push already fuming supporters into taking action.
‘ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE’
Under-fire Mikel Arteta says Arsenal must spend big — before the gap to the top sides becomes “almost impossible” to bridge.
And the Gunners boss believes owner Stan Kroenke WILL provide a significant war chest this summer to try to stop the rot.
Mid-table Arsenal are way off the pace again and Arteta said: “Time is catching up right now.
“It’s a trend, it’s years now that this has been happening.
“If the distance and the margins with the rest becomes too big, then it’s almost impossible to do it.
“I think we are still on time and we have put some very strong pillars and foundations in the last few months to do what we have to do.
“We are in the right place to do it — and we have to do it.
“The squad needs changing. There were already a lot of changes in December, something that has not been done in years, but it tells us where we were.
“Things have to change and the owners are going to back it up.”
You can read Dan King’s piece in full by clicking here.
Mikel Arteta has begged for transfer funds before Arsenal fall too far behind leading clubs
TAKING THE MIK
Former Spurs striker Dimitar Berbatov has called on Arsenal to stick with under-fire Mikel Arteta.
Ad the Bulgarian also described his former rivals not reaching the Europa League final as a ‘shame’.
He told Betfair: “People are talking about changing the Arsenal manager? Really? Mikel Arteta is a young manager and I hope he stays – I think that will be the case.
“It’s a shame they didn’t reach the final as that would have given them a good end to the season. They are massively underperforming.
“They need to strengthen their squad. Manchester United are looking like old United finally under Alex Ferguson, whilst Arsenal look no better than the last days under Arsene Wenger.”
Former Spurs striker Berbatov took a shot at Arsenal fans wanting Arteta outCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
HARTS IN MOUTH
SunSport Exclusive by Duncan Wright
Arsenal fear more fan fury if they fail to tie down teenage prodigy Kido Taylor-Hart to a new deal in the next month.
The highly-rated 18-year-old’s scholarship runs out this summer and a host of clubs from England and the continent have offered him pro terms.
Arsenal put a professional contract on the table earlier this year.
But so far Taylor-Hart has not committed himself and could still walk away for nothing at the end of the season.
His situation is being watched closely by Gunners fans.
Supporters are already upset at how the club is being run – not just in terms of the first team but also the development of young talent.
And there is likely to be uproar if the club is unable to tie him down to a contract and let him walk away.
He has options open to him in the Premier League, Bundesliga, Holland and Belgium.
You can read the rest of Duncan Wright’s exclusive by clicking here.
Arsenal fear fan backlash if they lose Kido Taylor-Hart
NO CHANGE
Josh Buatsi fears if Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has been forced off of social media by racist abuse then most other black sportspeople don’t stand a chance.
The Ghana-born South Londoner boldly took the knee before his thrilling October win over Marko Calic to fight against racial injustice.
But after spending eight weeks in San Francisco training with new trainer Virgil Hunter, he has returned to an almost identical landscape and learned Gunners icon Henry quit social media all together.
Ahead of Saturday’s Manchester match-up with undefeated Daniel Dos Santos, the 13-0 Rio 2016 bronze winner said: “I don’t think things have really improved but, when we talk about the sport of boxing, I personally have never experienced any racism in professional boxing.
“Internationally, in the amateurs, yes a few times in different countries but in [pro] boxing I have not.
“In the world now, are things changing? No, I think things are still the same.
“I can understand why certain Premier League footballers are saying ‘forget getting the knee, no changes are being made whatsoever’. I can see that.
“When I was in America I think I read that Thierry Henry has quit social media totally, he is just not up for it.
“He was a really good footballer so if people like him are experiencing it, then who knows what other people are experiencing?
“I haven’t thought about taking the knee for this fight yet, we will see.”
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is boycotting social mediaCredit: PA
GAME AUBA
Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has apologised to the fans for his side’s Europa League exit on Thursday night.
The striker wrote in his programme notes for tomorrow’s clash with West Brom: “We struggled to find our rhythm in the first half and didn’t give Villarreal enough problems.
“And when we had a chance, the luck wasn’t there for us, when I hit the post with the volley and then the header in the second half.
“I thought we started the second half with more energy and put them under pressure, but we just couldn’t maintain that drive and ultimately, we just didn’t find a way through Villarreal.
“I thought my header was in when it hit the post but it just wasn’t going to happen.
“Like I said, we are really upset about going out of the competition at this stage, for ourselves, for the club and most of all for you the supporters.
“It’s been such a difficult season for fans and we desperately wanted to give you something positive this season – I’m just so sorry we couldn’t do it for you.”
Aubameyang has apologised to supportersCredit: Getty
STUTT-ERING
Bundesliga side Stuttgart are in talks with Arsenal over keeping loanee Konstantinos Mavropanos, according to club chief Sven Mislintat.
The former Gunners transfer guru told Kicker: “We’re trying to get a loan.”
And he also admitted: “Buying is difficult in the current situation. Now there is a bit of back and forth.”
Mavropanos has enjoyed a decent season at StuttgartCredit: AP
ART OF WAR
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta urged his players to ‘show fans on the pitch’ why his is a project to get behind.
In the aftermath of Thursday night’s clash with Villarreal, he said: “We have to show them on the pitch, not talking.
“We are hugely disappointed because we wanted to deliver something special to them after the difficult season that we had.”
Mikel Arteta is under pressure at ArsenalCredit: Reuters
TAKING THE MIK?
England legend John Barnes has called on Arsenal to stick with rookie manager Mikel Arteta.
He said: “Arsenal must learn from Klopp’s first two years at Liverpool and stick with Arteta.
“Arsenal will look at what Arteta is doing and realise that he is building for the future with the young players like Saka and Smith Rowe.
“They’re looking to promote and play young players so Arsenal can’t demand instant success as they’re not spending hundreds of millions of pounds on players so, therefore, they have to put up with what they’re doing now if they believe in the long-term future of the club.”
Mikel Arteta could look to emulate Jurgen KloppCredit: Getty
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Not a bad impersonation of an Arsenal great, from current star Emile Smith Rowe.
The youngster has Charlie George’s celebration down to a tee.

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ARSENAL again fans protested against their ownership outside the Emirates before the Villarreal draw which dumped them out of Europe.On the pitch, a goalless draw was enough to see former boss Unai Emery knock the Gunners out and progress to the Europa League semi-final.
Meanwhile, Daniel Ek and his consortium have held a meeting with the Arsenal Supporters Trust as the Spotify founder steps up his takeover bid.
However, the Kroenke family are reportedly planning a huge summer of spending on transfers as they look to get angry Gunners fans on side.
CASINO SIGN UP OFFER: CLAIM UP TO £800 IN CASINO BONUS CASH
Stay up to date with every twist and turn from North London in our live blog…
‘ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE’
Under-fire Mikel Arteta says Arsenal must spend big — before the gap to the top sides becomes “almost impossible” to bridge.
And the Gunners boss believes owner Stan Kroenke WILL provide a significant war chest this summer to try to stop the rot.
Mid-table Arsenal are way off the pace again and Arteta said: “Time is catching up right now.
“It’s a trend, it’s years now that this has been happening.
“If the distance and the margins with the rest becomes too big, then it’s almost impossible to do it.
“I think we are still on time and we have put some very strong pillars and foundations in the last few months to do what we have to do.
“We are in the right place to do it — and we have to do it.
“The squad needs changing. There were already a lot of changes in December, something that has not been done in years, but it tells us where we were.
“Things have to change and the owners are going to back it up.”
You can read Dan King’s piece in full by clicking here.
Mikel Arteta has begged for transfer funds before Arsenal fall too far behind leading clubs
TAKING THE MIK
Former Spurs striker Dimitar Berbatov has called on Arsenal to stick with under-fire Mikel Arteta.
Ad the Bulgarian also described his former rivals not reaching the Europa League final as a ‘shame’.
He told Betfair: “People are talking about changing the Arsenal manager? Really? Mikel Arteta is a young manager and I hope he stays – I think that will be the case.
“It’s a shame they didn’t reach the final as that would have given them a good end to the season. They are massively underperforming.
“They need to strengthen their squad. Manchester United are looking like old United finally under Alex Ferguson, whilst Arsenal look no better than the last days under Arsene Wenger.”
Former Spurs striker Berbatov took a shot at Arsenal fans wanting Arteta outCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd
HARTS IN MOUTH
SunSport Exclusive by Duncan Wright
Arsenal fear more fan fury if they fail to tie down teenage prodigy Kido Taylor-Hart to a new deal in the next month.
The highly-rated 18-year-old’s scholarship runs out this summer and a host of clubs from England and the continent have offered him pro terms.
Arsenal put a professional contract on the table earlier this year.
But so far Taylor-Hart has not committed himself and could still walk away for nothing at the end of the season.
His situation is being watched closely by Gunners fans.
Supporters are already upset at how the club is being run – not just in terms of the first team but also the development of young talent.
And there is likely to be uproar if the club is unable to tie him down to a contract and let him walk away.
He has options open to him in the Premier League, Bundesliga, Holland and Belgium.
You can read the rest of Duncan Wright’s exclusive by clicking here.
Arsenal fear fan backlash if they lose Kido Taylor-Hart
NO CHANGE
Josh Buatsi fears if Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has been forced off of social media by racist abuse then most other black sportspeople don’t stand a chance.
The Ghana-born South Londoner boldly took the knee before his thrilling October win over Marko Calic to fight against racial injustice.
But after spending eight weeks in San Francisco training with new trainer Virgil Hunter, he has returned to an almost identical landscape and learned Gunners icon Henry quit social media all together.
Ahead of Saturday’s Manchester match-up with undefeated Daniel Dos Santos, the 13-0 Rio 2016 bronze winner said: “I don’t think things have really improved but, when we talk about the sport of boxing, I personally have never experienced any racism in professional boxing.
“Internationally, in the amateurs, yes a few times in different countries but in [pro] boxing I have not.
“In the world now, are things changing? No, I think things are still the same.
“I can understand why certain Premier League footballers are saying ‘forget getting the knee, no changes are being made whatsoever’. I can see that.
“When I was in America I think I read that Thierry Henry has quit social media totally, he is just not up for it.
“He was a really good footballer so if people like him are experiencing it, then who knows what other people are experiencing?
“I haven’t thought about taking the knee for this fight yet, we will see.”
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry is boycotting social mediaCredit: PA
GAME AUBA
Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has apologised to the fans for his side’s Europa League exit on Thursday night.
The striker wrote in his programme notes for tomorrow’s clash with West Brom: “We struggled to find our rhythm in the first half and didn’t give Villarreal enough problems.
“And when we had a chance, the luck wasn’t there for us, when I hit the post with the volley and then the header in the second half.
“I thought we started the second half with more energy and put them under pressure, but we just couldn’t maintain that drive and ultimately, we just didn’t find a way through Villarreal.
“I thought my header was in when it hit the post but it just wasn’t going to happen.
“Like I said, we are really upset about going out of the competition at this stage, for ourselves, for the club and most of all for you the supporters.
“It’s been such a difficult season for fans and we desperately wanted to give you something positive this season – I’m just so sorry we couldn’t do it for you.”
Aubameyang has apologised to supportersCredit: Getty
STUTT-ERING
Bundesliga side Stuttgart are in talks with Arsenal over keeping loanee Konstantinos Mavropanos, according to club chief Sven Mislintat.
The former Gunners transfer guru told Kicker: “We’re trying to get a loan.”
And he also admitted: “Buying is difficult in the current situation. Now there is a bit of back and forth.”
Mavropanos has enjoyed a decent season at StuttgartCredit: AP
ART OF WAR
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta urged his players to ‘show fans on the pitch’ why his is a project to get behind.
In the aftermath of Thursday night’s clash with Villarreal, he said: “We have to show them on the pitch, not talking.
“We are hugely disappointed because we wanted to deliver something special to them after the difficult season that we had.”
Mikel Arteta is under pressure at ArsenalCredit: Reuters
TAKING THE MIK?
England legend John Barnes has called on Arsenal to stick with rookie manager Mikel Arteta.
He said: “Arsenal must learn from Klopp’s first two years at Liverpool and stick with Arteta.
“Arsenal will look at what Arteta is doing and realise that he is building for the future with the young players like Saka and Smith Rowe.
“They’re looking to promote and play young players so Arsenal can’t demand instant success as they’re not spending hundreds of millions of pounds on players so, therefore, they have to put up with what they’re doing now if they believe in the long-term future of the club.”
Mikel Arteta could look to emulate Jurgen KloppCredit: Getty
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Not a bad impersonation of an Arsenal great, from current star Emile Smith Rowe.
The youngster has Charlie George’s celebration down to a tee.

DWIGHT FIGHT
Aston Villa are ready to launch a £15million bid for Burnley ace Dwight McNeil, according to reports.
The talented winger has been admired by Manchester United and Arsenal in the past.
But Dean Smith wants to take him to the West Midlands.
According to Football Insider, McNeil is one of Villa’s ‘top targets’ for the summer.
And they think that £15m could be enough to convince Burnley to sell.
The Clarets, however, agreed a contract extension with McNeil last October, currently tying him to Sean Dyche’s side until June 2024.
And Burnley are believed to have an option to trigger an extra year.
Dwight McNeil has impressed for the ClaretsCredit: AP
ARSENAL STATS
Let’s take a look at Arsenal’s Premier League campaign so far.
Alexandre Lacazette has scored the most league goals, 13 so far.
Granit Xhaka has been heavily involved their Premier League campaign, making the most passes, tackles and fouls.
Here’s the data…

DIXON REMEMBERS 2002
Arsenal legend Lee Dixon has celebrated the 19th anniversary of their title triumph at Old Trafford.
On May 8, 2002, the Gunners defeated Manchester United 1-0 to win the Premier League.
They have won just one league title since.

WILSHERE DISAGREES WITH KEOWN
Jack Wilshere has disagreed with Martin Keown over Thomas Party.
The ex-defender criticised the midfielder after Thursday night’s Europa League defeat to Villarreal, telling BT Sport: “We thought we were signing the next Patrick Vieira, and he hasn’t looked like that at all.”
Responding to Keown’s comments, Wilshere said: “Thomas Partey is a top, top player.
“I played against him in the semi-final of the Europa League and he was one of the toughest I played against.
“The recruitment is not down to Arteta. He’s the coach, he’s the manager and he picks the team.
“It is down to him to get the best out of them, but I wouldn’t say the recruitment is down to him anymore.”
ESR TRIBUTE TO CHARLIE
Emile Smith Rowe paid tribute to Arsenal legend Charlie George by emulating his 1971 FA Cup final goal in training.
It’s 50 years to the day since the Gunners defeated Liverpool 2-1 to win their first league and cup double.
If Smith Rowe has half the career George had, he’ll be some player.

MAGIC TUCH
Manchester United transfer target Ousmane Dembele has revealed that Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is the best manager he has played under.
The 23-year-old Frenchman was coached by Tuchel during his time as a teenager at Borussia Dortmund.
And it is another player during his time at Dortmund – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – that he describes as his best teammate.
Speaking to BeIN Sports, he said: “Things went super at Dortmund, a super squad, Aubameyang who welcomed me amazingly, even if it was quite tough with the German.
“Aubameyang really welcomed me well, he is the person that I have liked the most in football.
“And like I said Thomas Tuchel really convinced me, he is my favourite manager.”
MERSE SLAMS GUNNERS
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has slammed Mikel Arteta’s side following their Europa League semi-final defeat to Villarreal.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said: “It’s the worst [Arsenal performance] I’ve ever seen.
“That was the semi-final of a European game and there was absolutely no urgency.
“If you’d have come in and turned it on with 10 minutes to go, you’d have thought Arsenal were through.
“It was mind-blowing at the highest level.”
🗣”It is the worst I have ever seen.” Paul Merson’s honest review of Arsenal being knocked out of the Europa League semi-final and labelled it as ’embarrassing’ and ‘a joke’ pic.twitter.com/NGHIkyIb0E— Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 8, 2021

GUNNER SORT
Arsenal chief Richard Garlick will work on resolving the futures of Emile Smith Rowe and Alexandre Lacazette when he joins the club.
Garlick will take over as director of football operations on May 17 having been working for the Premier League in the same role.
And according to ESPN, two of his first jobs will be to sort out contract issues.
The first will be getting Smith Rowe to put pen to paper on a fresh deal.
His current one runs until 2023 but after a breakthrough season this term, the 20-year-old is due to earn a pay rise.
For Lacazette, Garlick must decide whether or not to offer a new deal.
The Frenchman, 29, is out of contract at the end of the 2021-22 season.

ICYMI – BERGE KING
Arsenal are reportedly in the fight for Sheffield United star Sander Berge.
The midfielder is said to be available for £35million in the summer via a relegation release clause.
And Sky Sports have outlined a number of clubs interested in his signature, including Everton.

BARC-ING MAD
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus have vowed to go to war with Uefa over threats to throw them out of European competition for sticking to the Super League plans.
The three clubs have been warned by the governing body they face a two-year ban from their competitions unless they finally give up their intention to play in the rebel tournament.
But in a joint statement released this morning, the football superpowers doubled down on their refusal to give up on the project and made it clear they think the law is on their side.
Real, Barca and Juve are all now prepared to fight it through the courts to challenge any Uefa ban as they desperately try to cling on to the ESL dream which will save them from the financial turmoil they have left themselves in.
Click here to read the statement.

ART & SOUL
Mikel Arteta says he is giving his whole LIFE to the Arsenal job.
And he vowed to fight on as manager after the Europa League heartache to Villarreal.
Speaking after the defeat, Arteta said: “Since I arrived here what I have tried to do, giving my life, my best ability, investing every drop of energy that I have emotionally to support everything that has been going around with my knowledge, with staff, with all the players that are trying to contribute with all the club to give our best.
“But so far it has not been enough and when the question mark comes, why it is not enough? Is it just a thing? Is it the manager? Is it any other stuff? What is it?
“And then this is football. Again, I repeat myself, last night that ball goes in we win 1-0. You are in the final and it is a different world. But today that world doesn’t look very nice.”
MAY 8 IS ARSENAL’S DAY
The Gunners just love playing on May 8.
As well as securing their first ever double 50 years ago today, it’s 19 years since Arsene Wenger’s side won the Premier League title at Old Trafford.
A goal from Frenchman Sylvain Wiltord secured a 1-0 victory.
Arsenal fans can only dream of such success today…
ARTETA FOCUSED ON PL FINISH
Mikel Arteta wants his team to finish the Premier League season strongly following Thursday night’s Europa League defeat to Villarreal.
The Gunners boss, speaking to the club’s official website, said: “We have no time [to think too deeply about Thursday’s disappointment] because we have a game on Sunday.
“We have a training session this morning [Friday] and it has to be by today when you leave the training ground, most of it has to be out of the system.
“I think you have to leave some of it in some of your system, and use some of it in the right way as an energy driver in the game on Sunday.”
HOW HIGH CAN ARSENAL FINISH?
Following their Europa League exit, Arsenal’s priority is to qualify for European football next season.
They are currently ninth in the Premier League on 49 points, with four games remaining.
Should they win their remaining games – and, somehow, their rivals lose theirs – the Gunners will finish in fourth.
They are currently 12 points behind Chelsea, the team occupying that position.
As that is extremely unlikely to happen, Arsenal should be aiming to finish seventh or higher.
They are currently five points behind Liverpool in seventh and seven points behind Tottenham in sixth.
If they finish seventh, they will qualify for the Europa Conference League – Uefa’s new tertiary competition.
Fifth and sixth are the Europa League spots.
Failing that, they could always try and revive the European Super League…
Credit: The Sun
50 YEARS AGO
Today is the 50th anniversary of Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph against Liverpool.
Goals from Eddie Kelly and Charlie George secured a 2-1 victory in extra-time.
The win was the second half of Arsenal’s first league and cup double – a decade after Tottenham had achieved the honour.
The greatest day in Arsenal’s history?

ART DEALER
Arsenal are sticking with Mikel Arteta and will back him with funds for a summer spending spree.
The 39-year-old Spaniard is now the bookies’ favourite to become the next Premier League boss to be sacked.
But the Gunners are determined to keep faith with Arteta despite the very real threat of missing out on European qualification for the first time since 1995.
Owner Stan Kroenke and technical director Edu remain convinced Arteta is the right man to lead the club back to the big time.
But if the team is still mid-table by the end of the year then Arteta will be replaced.
Credit: EPA
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ARSENAL again fans protested against their ownership outside the Emirates before the Villarreal draw which dumped them out of Europe.On the pitch, a goalless draw was enough to see former boss Unai Emery knock the Gunners out and progress to the Europa League semi-final.
Meanwhile, Daniel Ek and his consortium have held a meeting with the Arsenal Supporters Trust as the Spotify founder steps up his takeover bid.
However, the Kroenke family are reportedly planning a huge summer of spending on transfers as they look to get angry Gunners fans on side.
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Stay up to date with every twist and turn from North London in our live blog…
BACK TO THE FUTURE
Not a bad impersonation of an Arsenal great, from current star Emile Smith Rowe.
The youngster has Charlie George’s celebration down to a tee.

DWIGHT FIGHT
Aston Villa are ready to launch a £15million bid for Burnley ace Dwight McNeil, according to reports.
The talented winger has been admired by Manchester United and Arsenal in the past.
But Dean Smith wants to take him to the West Midlands.
According to Football Insider, McNeil is one of Villa’s ‘top targets’ for the summer.
And they think that £15m could be enough to convince Burnley to sell.
The Clarets, however, agreed a contract extension with McNeil last October, currently tying him to Sean Dyche’s side until June 2024.
And Burnley are believed to have an option to trigger an extra year.
Dwight McNeil has impressed for the ClaretsCredit: AP
ARSENAL STATS
Let’s take a look at Arsenal’s Premier League campaign so far.
Alexandre Lacazette has scored the most league goals, 13 so far.
Granit Xhaka has been heavily involved their Premier League campaign, making the most passes, tackles and fouls.
Here’s the data…

DIXON REMEMBERS 2002
Arsenal legend Lee Dixon has celebrated the 19th anniversary of their title triumph at Old Trafford.
On May 8, 2002, the Gunners defeated Manchester United 1-0 to win the Premier League.
They have won just one league title since.

WILSHERE DISAGREES WITH KEOWN
Jack Wilshere has disagreed with Martin Keown over Thomas Party.
The ex-defender criticised the midfielder after Thursday night’s Europa League defeat to Villarreal, telling BT Sport: “We thought we were signing the next Patrick Vieira, and he hasn’t looked like that at all.”
Responding to Keown’s comments, Wilshere said: “Thomas Partey is a top, top player.
“I played against him in the semi-final of the Europa League and he was one of the toughest I played against.
“The recruitment is not down to Arteta. He’s the coach, he’s the manager and he picks the team.
“It is down to him to get the best out of them, but I wouldn’t say the recruitment is down to him anymore.”
ESR TRIBUTE TO CHARLIE
Emile Smith Rowe paid tribute to Arsenal legend Charlie George by emulating his 1971 FA Cup final goal in training.
It’s 50 years to the day since the Gunners defeated Liverpool 2-1 to win their first league and cup double.
If Smith Rowe has half the career George had, he’ll be some player.

MAGIC TUCH
Manchester United transfer target Ousmane Dembele has revealed that Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel is the best manager he has played under.
The 23-year-old Frenchman was coached by Tuchel during his time as a teenager at Borussia Dortmund.
And it is another player during his time at Dortmund – Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – that he describes as his best teammate.
Speaking to BeIN Sports, he said: “Things went super at Dortmund, a super squad, Aubameyang who welcomed me amazingly, even if it was quite tough with the German.
“Aubameyang really welcomed me well, he is the person that I have liked the most in football.
“And like I said Thomas Tuchel really convinced me, he is my favourite manager.”
MERSE SLAMS GUNNERS
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has slammed Mikel Arteta’s side following their Europa League semi-final defeat to Villarreal.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said: “It’s the worst [Arsenal performance] I’ve ever seen.
“That was the semi-final of a European game and there was absolutely no urgency.
“If you’d have come in and turned it on with 10 minutes to go, you’d have thought Arsenal were through.
“It was mind-blowing at the highest level.”
🗣”It is the worst I have ever seen.” Paul Merson’s honest review of Arsenal being knocked out of the Europa League semi-final and labelled it as ’embarrassing’ and ‘a joke’ pic.twitter.com/NGHIkyIb0E— Football Daily (@footballdaily) May 8, 2021

GUNNER SORT
Arsenal chief Richard Garlick will work on resolving the futures of Emile Smith Rowe and Alexandre Lacazette when he joins the club.
Garlick will take over as director of football operations on May 17 having been working for the Premier League in the same role.
And according to ESPN, two of his first jobs will be to sort out contract issues.
The first will be getting Smith Rowe to put pen to paper on a fresh deal.
His current one runs until 2023 but after a breakthrough season this term, the 20-year-old is due to earn a pay rise.
For Lacazette, Garlick must decide whether or not to offer a new deal.
The Frenchman, 29, is out of contract at the end of the 2021-22 season.

ICYMI – BERGE KING
Arsenal are reportedly in the fight for Sheffield United star Sander Berge.
The midfielder is said to be available for £35million in the summer via a relegation release clause.
And Sky Sports have outlined a number of clubs interested in his signature, including Everton.

BARC-ING MAD
Real Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus have vowed to go to war with Uefa over threats to throw them out of European competition for sticking to the Super League plans.
The three clubs have been warned by the governing body they face a two-year ban from their competitions unless they finally give up their intention to play in the rebel tournament.
But in a joint statement released this morning, the football superpowers doubled down on their refusal to give up on the project and made it clear they think the law is on their side.
Real, Barca and Juve are all now prepared to fight it through the courts to challenge any Uefa ban as they desperately try to cling on to the ESL dream which will save them from the financial turmoil they have left themselves in.
Click here to read the statement.

ART & SOUL
Mikel Arteta says he is giving his whole LIFE to the Arsenal job.
And he vowed to fight on as manager after the Europa League heartache to Villarreal.
Speaking after the defeat, Arteta said: “Since I arrived here what I have tried to do, giving my life, my best ability, investing every drop of energy that I have emotionally to support everything that has been going around with my knowledge, with staff, with all the players that are trying to contribute with all the club to give our best.
“But so far it has not been enough and when the question mark comes, why it is not enough? Is it just a thing? Is it the manager? Is it any other stuff? What is it?
“And then this is football. Again, I repeat myself, last night that ball goes in we win 1-0. You are in the final and it is a different world. But today that world doesn’t look very nice.”
MAY 8 IS ARSENAL’S DAY
The Gunners just love playing on May 8.
As well as securing their first ever double 50 years ago today, it’s 19 years since Arsene Wenger’s side won the Premier League title at Old Trafford.
A goal from Frenchman Sylvain Wiltord secured a 1-0 victory.
Arsenal fans can only dream of such success today…
ARTETA FOCUSED ON PL FINISH
Mikel Arteta wants his team to finish the Premier League season strongly following Thursday night’s Europa League defeat to Villarreal.
The Gunners boss, speaking to the club’s official website, said: “We have no time [to think too deeply about Thursday’s disappointment] because we have a game on Sunday.
“We have a training session this morning [Friday] and it has to be by today when you leave the training ground, most of it has to be out of the system.
“I think you have to leave some of it in some of your system, and use some of it in the right way as an energy driver in the game on Sunday.”
HOW HIGH CAN ARSENAL FINISH?
Following their Europa League exit, Arsenal’s priority is to qualify for European football next season.
They are currently ninth in the Premier League on 49 points, with four games remaining.
Should they win their remaining games – and, somehow, their rivals lose theirs – the Gunners will finish in fourth.
They are currently 12 points behind Chelsea, the team occupying that position.
As that is extremely unlikely to happen, Arsenal should be aiming to finish seventh or higher.
They are currently five points behind Liverpool in seventh and seven points behind Tottenham in sixth.
If they finish seventh, they will qualify for the Europa Conference League – Uefa’s new tertiary competition.
Fifth and sixth are the Europa League spots.
Failing that, they could always try and revive the European Super League…
Credit: The Sun
50 YEARS AGO
Today is the 50th anniversary of Arsenal’s FA Cup triumph against Liverpool.
Goals from Eddie Kelly and Charlie George secured a 2-1 victory in extra-time.
The win was the second half of Arsenal’s first league and cup double – a decade after Tottenham had achieved the honour.
The greatest day in Arsenal’s history?

ART DEALER
Arsenal are sticking with Mikel Arteta and will back him with funds for a summer spending spree.
The 39-year-old Spaniard is now the bookies’ favourite to become the next Premier League boss to be sacked.
But the Gunners are determined to keep faith with Arteta despite the very real threat of missing out on European qualification for the first time since 1995.
Owner Stan Kroenke and technical director Edu remain convinced Arteta is the right man to lead the club back to the big time.
But if the team is still mid-table by the end of the year then Arteta will be replaced.
Credit: EPA
JOE GOALS
Arsenal loanee Joe Willock has scored in each of his last four games for Newcastle.
The 21-year-old has bagged against Tottenham (pleasing Gunners everywhere), West Ham, Liverpool and Leicester.
Surely he should be given a chance next season by Mikel Arteta?
If he’s still in charge, that is.

GOOD MORNING GUNNERS FANS
SunSport understands Arsenal are sticking with manager Mikel Arteta and will back him with funds for a summer spending spree.
The 39-year-old Spaniard is now the bookies’ favourite to become the next Premier League boss to be sacked.
But the club is determined to keep faith with Arteta despite the threat of missing out on European qualification for the first time since 1995.
Owner Stan Kroenke and technical director Edu Gaspar remain convinced that Arteta is the right man to lead the club back to the big time.
But they will not wait forever for the Premier League’s youngest boss to make an impact.
And if the team is still stuck in mid-table by the end of the year then Arteta will be replaced.
Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The Gunners are waiting to hear about Onana’s appeal after he was banned for failing a drugs test.
According to Goal, Arsenal are tracking the goalkeeper but his availability is a potential stumbling block.
Anana is currently serving a 12-month suspension for a doping violation which runs until February.
The Cameroon keeper has launched an appeal against the ban which will be heard in June.
Finally, speculation is mounting that Aaron Ramsey could sign for Arsenal this summer.
The Juventus midfielder has failed to regularly star in Turin and Il BiancoNero report on interest from the Gunners and Everton.
It is said Ramsey would ‘immediately’ jump at the chance of rejoining his old club.
FROM SUNSPORT’S MARK IRWIN
Arsenal are sticking with manager Mikel Arteta and will back him with funds for a summer spending spree.
The 39-year-old Spaniard is now the bookies’ favourite to become the next Premier League boss to be sacked.
But the club is determined to keep faith with Arteta despite the threat of missing out on European qualification for the first time since 1995.
Owner Stan Kroenke and technical director Edu Gaspar remain convinced that Arteta is the right man to lead the club back to the big time.
But they will not wait forever for the Premier League’s youngest boss to make an impact.
And if the team is still stuck in mid-table by the end of the year then Arteta will be replaced.
Arsenal have no plans to ditch Mikel Arteta
BERGE KING
Arsenal are reportedly in the fight for Sheffield United star Sander Berge.
The midfielder is said to be available for £35million in the summer via a relegation release clause.
And Sky Sports have outlined a number of clubs interested in his signature, including Everton.
Arsenal are keen signing Sander Berge
FLOR BLIMEY
Arsenal have missed out on Marseille winger Florian Thauvin.
The Gunners and Leicester were both said to be keen on the Frenchman, who will be a free agent this summer.
But the former Newcastle man has instead agreed a shock move to Tigres, with the Mexicans confirming a deal on Friday.

HE’S A KEEPER
Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana.
The Gunners are waiting to hear about Onana’s appeal after he was banned for failing a drugs test.
According to Goal, Arsenal are tracking the goalkeeper but his availability is a potential stumbling block.
Anana is currently serving a 12-month suspension for a doping violation which runs until February.
The Cameroon keeper has launched an appeal against the ban which will be heard in June.
Arsenal are interested in Andre Onana
REBEL ALLIANCE
The Premier League’s Big Six have agreed to multi-million pound fines from Uefa – as a condition of being allowed back into European football.
Uefa chiefs confirmed they had agreed “reintegration measures” with the nine clubs – including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Spurs, City and United.
As a condition of the deal, the nine – completed by AC Milan, Inter and Atletico Madrid – will share a slap on the wrist £13m “goodwill” payment to be ploughed into youth and grassroots football, including in the UK.
But all nine, who Uefa said had “acknowledged their mistake”, also agreed to give up five per cent of the money they would have received from Uefa for their next European campaign.
And they agreed they would face massive fines of £87m if they joined any future breakaway, or £43.5m if they merely committed to any such new league.
Nine of the ‘Dirty Dozen’ have been punished by Uefa for their role in the ESL
TAKING THE BISS
Yves Bissouma is wanted by Manchester City, according to reports.
Arsenal had been one of many clubs fighting for the Brighton star but could struggle to hold off Pep Guardiola’s advances.
The Star describe City as ‘confident’ of pulling off a deal for the £30million-rated midfielder.
Man City have joined Arsenal in the hunt for Yves Bissouma
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