Perhaps the Invincible’s are somewhat vincible. Since 2004 the Gunners have struggled. With three FA cups along the way, the fans have something to console them. Alas memories are short, and tempers boil — especially at a time of turmoil. For the first time in 19 years, Arsenal have failed to achieve a Champions League spot. The club has gotten itself into a messy situation; the future of their two best players is surrounded by questions, rumours and uncertainty. Not only that, the future of the club itself is drowning in uncertainty.

With top 4 looking quite unlikely, what can the Gunners do to turn things around?

Win the Europa League

Manchester United achieved a place in the Champions League, despite coming below Arsenal — 6th place.

This is arguably the most important target for Arsenal this season. It’s looking increasingly likely that they’ll miss out on top 4. The Gunners should take a page out Manchester United’s playbook — win the Europa to secure a spot in the Champions League. This is vital, as competing in the Champions League will provide Arsenal a sizeable source of revenue, the fans something to rejoice about but more importantly attract top quality foreign players to the club. With RB Leipzig, Napoli, AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid left in the race, this will be a gargantuan task for the North London side.

Change in managerial staff

The three-time Champions League winner is now without a club.

Arsene Wenger has been a loyal servant to the Gunners, with many highs and lows, however it’s clear that his time in North London is up. Especially during the age of the managerial revolving door — many top flight managers fail to last at least 5 years at a club. Its finally time to have a fresh face at Arsenal, one with the hunger and desire to catapult the Gunners back to elite football. According to The Week, Carlo Ancelotti, Diego Simeone and Thomas Tuchel are amongst the favourites to replace the Frenchman. Out of the bunch, Carlo Ancelotti would be the perfect successor. He has a phenomenal track record and his possession-based philosophy suits Arsenal’s particular brand of football.

Lift the financial restrictions on spending and increase transfers

Premier League spending for the top 6 clubs (Figures account for the last five years until December 2017)

In the age where spending equals success; Arsenal have spent and sold the least, whilst still having the third highest net spend. In terms of success this season, they’re dead last. This indicates that Arsenal must spend money on great players that fit their system i.e. pursue the priority targets rather than settle for second tier players due to high transfer fees. One instance that comes to mind is Danny Wellbeck’s switch to Arsenal. The Gunners were in desperate need of a world class striker, but instead bought backup as they were not willing to splash the cash on Europe’s deadliest finishers.

Invest in quality players with high potential

The Gunners have prepared a £45 million deal for the Brazilian winger.

Arsenal’s main priority as of now is to secure a viable replacement of Alexis Sanchez. Bordeaux winger Malcolm has caught the eye of Arsene Wenger. According to Metro, the Gunners are planning a £45 million deal to lure him to the Emirates. Malcolm is an extremely talented player and showing signs of potential, with 7 goals and 5 assists. The problem is that this isn’t a quick fix, it will take years for him to develop into a goalscoring menace like Alexis Sanchez.

A club like Arsenal has two options; spend big and bring the the hottest talent to challenge for glory or develop academy graduates into top class footballers. It’s easier said than done, but Arsenal must take decisive action to stay relevant. If anything, the Gunners should emulate their North London rivals. Spurs have managed to produce two world class players in Delle Alli and Harry Kane. Whilst also developing great players such as Danny Rose and Eric Dier. Teams such as Atletico Madrid, Monaco and Ajax seem to have the magic formula in making prudent transfers and developing youth players — both of which turn out to be top quality players. Arsenal should aim to be amongst them.

Never in a million years repeat the Sanchez dilemma!