Pires: ‘Wenger has philosophy of trying to win’ (slow clap)

Daniel Storey

Former Arsenal player Robert Pires has rejected the idea that Arsenal are on a downward slope.

Arsenal finished fifth last season and are sixth this year, unlikely to finish in the top four again.

Despite this, Pires believes that it is simply a case of the teams around Arsenal improving.

Speaking to Marca, Pires defended his old boss. Given that they are still close, that’s no surprise.

“I don’t think Arsenal is necessarily in a downward slope because the Premier League is very hard and very competitive,” Pires said.

“Seven teams can win the Premier League each season which makes it difficult for everyone.

“I’m close to Wenger and his main aim each season is to win the Premier League. At times you can win and other times you cannot because it’s very difficult to do so.

“It’s important for Arsenal to fight for trophies at the end of each season, starting with the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City on Sunday. But the biggest aim now is to win the Europa League.

“Wenger always wants to try and win. He has spent a lot of money on players in Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez, Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and he has also brought Henrikh Mkhitaryan from Manchester United. Wenger has that philosophy of trying to win.”