What a week it was for the Gunners. We've seen three major decisions go against us and as a result, seen our side tragically knocked out of Europe while our title hopes have finally come to a realistic end.
Obviously after the last couple of games, us Gooners are bound to be a tad annoyed at how such a promising season could end in a week and in such a devastating fashion.
At this time of disappointment, I have looked all over the net to seek what other fans like me think of such a difficult time. I was ready for some negative opinions but I was still surprised by what I read.
For example, head on other to this website’s forum and like many other Arsenal forums, blogs etc, you will read some extremely harsh and perhaps over the top comments on our team. After such a frustrating and quite unbelievable week, I can understand that. I can deal with that. But one thing that I can't stand is so called 'fans' calling for Arsene Wenger’s head.
For me, and I hope that this is the case for you - the reader, this is totally unacceptable, to say the least. Ever since his appointment in 1996, he has completely revolutionised our club in all departments; Style of play - We can now watch arguably the best footballing side in the country. Silverware - Note the two doubles and Invincible season. Quality of players - We brought in players that are legendary; Vieira, Henry, Pires etc. A new stadium - He was so supportive of this move and I am sure he had a huge impact in making it happen. This man has done so much but it seems to have been forgotten by some fans.
So we now move onto the big topic at the moment which I am sure is on every Gooner’s lips at the moment; 'Watching beautiful football each week but no trophies to show off' or 'Win titles and finals to add silverware to the trophy cabinet although having to play dull and repetitive football. For me, I'd rather go watch attractive football, like the Liverpool/United performances than watch boring, predictable and desperate football which seems to be played by many Premier League teams nowadays.
Although at times, watching Arsenal can be frustrating - like we have seen in recent games. We have played really good football. It's been a joy to watch. And yes, you'll say "Oh, we didn't win. I want to win trophies!" Well I’ve got one response for that: Go support Chelsea.
You may take insult to that but that's what supporting Chelsea is about. The fans don't give a toss about how they play; As long as they win, they're happy. Even their players and manager seem to have adopted that idea (Grant/Cashley etc) but I wonder, is winning week in, week out and getting silverware regularly all worth it, if you have to win ugly?
Fair enough, all teams have to win ugly at some point but paying all that money to watch that every single week must give you no sense of satisfaction.
As you may already be able to tell, my answer to the previous question is an unquestionable NO!
I watch football in an attempt to be entertained and that is the reason I watch Arsenal - well other than meet the lads and have a p*ss up - but coming to watch The Arsenal is a pretty unique feeling. A feeling that I'm sure none of our rivals will ever feel. We are without a doubt, the best footballing side in the world, let alone the country.
And we all have to thank Mr. Wenger for making this possible. He is the greatest thing that has ever happened to our club. As I said before, he has recently been under some harsh and undeserving criticism. In some cases, I have seen 'fans' demanding that they want Le Boss out. Some are even thinking of who could take over his role in the summer.
I've not written this article to moan or to create conflict. However when re-reading it, it could well seem to be the case... but as I finish, my message to all Gooners is to keep faith in Arsene.
In Arsene we trust - Well, I hope anyway.