Charles Watts has said on his own Youtube channel that he doesn’t think Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be sacked, regardless of their results in the Europe League.
Arsenal’s whole season effectively comes down to their progress in Europe.
The Gunners will take on Villarreal on Thursday evening knowing that if they are knocked out of the competition then this campaign will have to be seen as a huge disappointment.
Arsenal looked destined to finish in mid-table in the Premier League, with Arteta’s side sitting in 10th place.
Voices of discontent have largely been kept quiet so far, with many Arsenal supporters realising that Arteta needs time to put things right.
But if Arsenal do exit the Europa League the calls for the Spaniard to be sacked will only grow louder.
However, Watts suggests that the rookie boss will be given time whatever happens against Unai Emery’s side.
“I don’t think he will get sacked,” Watts said. “I think Arsenal have bought into this project and they will give Arteta at least another summer and see how next season goes, even if they don’t win the Europa League.
“I think there is an acceptance at club level that this is going to take time, that he needs to be given more transfer windows and this is a bit of a freak season. He will be given more time, so I don’t think he will be sacked.”
Arsenal’s stance is admirable in modern day football, where results are often demanded.
However, if the Gunners board do stick with Arteta he will be under huge pressure going into the new campaign.
Arsenal fans simply won’t accept another season of mid-table mediocrity, particularly if there is no European football on offer.
And Arteta will realise the importance of winning on Thursday evening, if he is to keep his job for the long term.
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