Former hated Arsenal star speaks out on how gunners have already won in this title race

Former Arsenal centre back Shkodran Mustafi has opened up on why he believes the Gunners have already won something even if they lose the Premier League title to Manchester City. Mustafi, who suffered a lot of abuse in the past while he was at Arsenal and was one of the most hated players in that period, spoke to Sky Germany about his views on Arsenal’s current situation.

According to Mustafi, Arsenal’s positive development under Arteta is almost more important than winning the league just once and then not being able to build on it, like Leicester City did after winning the title in 2016. He believes that Arsenal have already won a title in which they play in the Champions League again next year because that’s where the club belongs.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 23: Shkodran Mustafi of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Everton FC at Emirates Stadium on February 23, 2020 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

“I think Arsenal have already won a title in which they play in the Champions League again next year because that’s where the club belongs.” Mustafi told Sky Germany.

“Of course, Arsenal want to win the league after a season like the current one. But the goal will be to play at the top for the next few years and not just win the Premier League once.”

Arsenal are currently second on the Premier League table with 75 points after 33 games but are closely following first placed Manchester City which has 76 points plus two games in hand. They are definitely in a title race and could still win it this season. However, Mustafi thinks that their goal should be to play at the top for the next few years and not just win the Premier League once.

Mustafi also pointed out that Arsenal haven’t played in the Champions League since Arsene Wenger left the club. This is a big deal for a club like Arsenal, who have a rich history of playing at Europe’s top table. Playing in the Champions League is not only important for financial reasons but also for attracting top players to join the club.

LONDON, ENGLAND – APRIL 21: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Southampton FC at Emirates Stadium on April 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Under Arteta, Arsenal have made significant progress both on and off the pitch. The Spaniard has brought stability to a club that was struggling under Unai Emery. He has also improved their defensive record and made them more competitive against big teams.

In conclusion, while winning titles is important for any football club, Mustafi believes that playing in Europe’s top competition is equally important for a club like Arsenal. The Gunners have already won something by securing their place in the Champions League next season. However, they should aim to play at the top for the next few years and not just win the Premier League once.