Ray Parlour Exclusive: 'There's no pressure on Mikel Arteta'

Former Arsenal midfielder Ray Parlour insists Mikel Arteta isn't under pressure despite the looming prospect of another trophyless season.

The Gunners currently trail Premier League leaders by 12 points with nine matches remaining. Arsenal also face a difficult draw against current holders Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the Champions League and have been knocked out of both domestic cup competitions.

Some focus has been given to Arteta's suitability to the role which he's occupied since December 2019. In over five years in the job, the only trophy the Spaniard has won is an FA Cup in the summer of 2020.

Parlour: 'Arsenal are close to winning the league'

Arsenal's league performance has been steadily improving over the last three seasons. The north London club came close to winning the Premier League in 2022/23 but a late collapse saw them surrender the title to eventual champions Manchester City. Arteta's crop were also among the competing pack last season but again came up short to Pep Guardiola and co.

This season looked as though it could present the perfect circumstances for the Gunners to finally become Premier League champions for the first time since 2004, but things haven't quite gone to plan. Poorly-timed injuries and a lack of clinical edge have hampered them, even with the collapse of City at the league summit.

Still, speaking exclusively to Odds Now via NetBet Online Casino, Parlour insists his old side is well-poised to become English champions in the near future.

He said: "Arsenal are really close now. Same as last year, they are maybe one player away from the title.

"Unfortunately this year, with injuries at the wrong times they have been unable to get close to Liverpool, [who] have built up a good cushion as we enter the business end of the season.

"[There's] no real pressure [on Arteta] for me, but the recruitment has to be right this summer for Arsenal to really push on and be a full force next season to secure a trophy."

Emirates match crucial in Real Madrid Champions League tie

The talk around finally bringing silverware back to the Emirates heaps pressure on Arsenal ahead of their meeting with European behemoths Real Madrid next month.

Not only have Arsenal never won the competition in their history, but they face-off against the club who has won it more times (15) than any other across the continent.

Add the Gunners' lengthy injury list in forward areas and the task facing Arteta's men appears rather daunting.

Parlour therefore says the support of Arsenal supporters, particularly in the first leg, will be crucial if they are to stand any chance of progressing to the semi-finals.

He said: "Arsenal know their league fate now, so this is their only chance of silverware.

"At home first, the crowd must be in full voice to give the players even more confidence to go and get a win, and hopefully a two or more goal lead to take to Real Madrid in the Bernabau.

"Arsenal will be looking to take advantage of Real Madrid’s defensive line and take the game to them at home. They have to take any chances they create and be positive."

The bookies are somewhat predictably anticipating the Spanish side to be the one which proceeds to the final four.

Arsenal currently sit firm 11/8 underdogs to qualify, compared to the odds-on 8/13 on offer for Real Madrid.

Parlour was speaking exclusively to Odds Now via NetBet Online Casino.