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Arsenal news: David O’Leary reveals Unai Emery doubts just four games into new season
ARSENAL will struggle to break back into the Premier League top four this season - because their rivals are no worse than they were last term.
Sol Campbell: Arsenal need to be patient with Unai Emery
That is according to former Republic of Ireland defender and Arsenal’s record appearance maker David O’Leary.
The Gunners finished sixth in the table in Arsene Wenger’s final season at the club.
It was the second successive campaign they had finished outside the Champions League qualification places after 20 consecutive years of ending in the top four.
Manchester City ran away with the title last season, leaving all other teams in their wake.
I look at the five teams that finished ahead of us, I don’t think they’ve got any worse
Manchester United, Tottenham, Liverpool and Chelsea made up the next four places before Arsenal.
And O’Leary reckons those sides have not declined over the summer, which makes Unai Emery’s task a tougher one.
“I look at the five teams that finished ahead of us, I don’t think they’ve got any worse,” O’Leary told Goal.
“I think it was going to be a tough job for whoever was going to come in here.
“If this manager gets into the top four, I think it’s been a great achievement.”
Arsenal have won two and lost two of their first four competitive games under Emery.
Former Gunners midfielder Tomas Rosicky is impressed with what he has seen so far.
And the ex-Czech Republic international is hoping Emery can bring his past success to the Emirates.
“I think Unai Emery is a very good manager, who was successful everywhere he has been before,” Rosicky said.
“I trust him, I’m looking forward to seeing Arsenal more and I hope they will grow.”
A trip to Newcastle is next up for Arsenal after the international break.
Rafa Benitez's side have just one point from their first four games of the season.