Robert Pires insists the Europa League is important for Arsenal
Thursday 22 February 2018 22:04, UK
Former Arsenal winger Robert Pires believes winning the Europa League should be a priority for the Gunners.
Arsenal booked their place in the last 16 of the competition with a 4-2 aggregate win over Ostersunds, despite losing the second leg 2-1 at the Emirates on Thursday night.Arsene Wenger rested several key players against the Swedish side with the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City on Sunday, live on Sky Sports, but Pires believes his former side should treat the Europa League with respect.
When asked if winning the Europa League was Arsenal's best chance of qualifying for the Champions League, Pires said: "I don't know but this is a very good opportunity for Arsenal to win a trophy. Manchester United set a good example last season.
However, Pires believes Wenger is doing a good job at the Emirates and has backed the Frenchman to cope with the pressure directed at him from one section of Arsenal's support.
"Arsene Wenger is always under a lot of pressure, especially from the fans," said Pires. "When you start the season the first objective is to win something at the end of the season.
"He has two great opportunities. On Sunday, to win the Carabao Cup, and the second - why not to win the Europa League? He will be very focussed and cope with the pressure.
"It is not a problem for him."
