Arsenal Seeks Champions League Redemption Amid Premier League Struggles

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is turning to the Champions League as a potential lifeline for his injury-depleted squad, whose Premier League title hopes have nearly evaporated after trailing Liverpool by 13 points. With key players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus ruled out for the season due to injuries, Arteta hopes a favorable draw against PSV Eindhoven in the last-16 can provide crucial time for the return of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. The Gunners have struggled offensively, failing to score in their last two league matches, leading to concerns over their creativity and finishing. Arteta has had to resort to unorthodox solutions, such as using midfielder Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker and relying on 16-year-old Ethan Nwaneri in Saka's position. Despite these challenges, Arteta emphasizes that there is still much to play for, especially with the Champions League on the horizon. The team's issues reflect broader concerns about player fatigue amid a congested fixture schedule.