Arsenal legend says Gunners ‘can’t win Champions League’ as two-word declare made
Former Arsenal and Manchester United favourite Mikaël Silvestre has waded in on his former side’s chances of winning the Champions League, and he doesn’t give them much hope
Silverstre has waded in
An Arsenal legend has claimed the club “can’t win” the Champions League this season, warning that conquering Europe is a “different story” compared to domestic success. While Mikel Arteta’s side have been tipped to secure the Premier League title with Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz leading the line, questions remain over whether the squad possesses the specific edge required for European glory.
Assessing the Gunners’ silverware prospects, former favourite Mikaël Silvestre insisted that their attacking options are fully capable of delivering domestic silverware, even if continental honours prove a bridge too far.
“I still think Arsenal can win the Premier League title with Gyokeres and Havertz, but the Champions League might be a different story,” he said.
He’ll win the league, but not much more
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Despite reservations over their European campaign, Havertz was singled out for his knack of stepping up when the stakes are highest. The German international has become a vital component under Arteta, though the club icon feels the forward still lacks the widespread recognition his big-game performances deserve.
“Havertz is silencing the doubters now,” he noted, when speaking to Betarades. “Key games, he’s scoring and responding. He is scoring goals and I don’t think he is receiving enough praise for what he is doing.”
Meanwhile, the onus is on Gyokeres to maintain a ruthless streak in front of goal to cement his long-term place in the side. Following Arsenal’s exit from the League Cup – a result the former Gunner believes could ultimately benefit their fixture congestion – opportunities must be taken immediately.
“Gyokeres has to challenge and make an impact whenever he’s starting or coming on,” he continued. “They’re out of the League Cup but I don’t see that as a big upset.
“Actually I think it might benefit Arsenal. He has to continue and hope he will score when he is given the chance. That’s the life of a striker, who has to put the ball in the back of the net.
“He won the title in his first season at Arsenal and I am sure he wants more.”
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