Reporter identifies a key difference between Arsenal and Tottenham | OneFootball

Arsenal’s decision to release Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in the January transfer window and not replace the striker has been blamed for their recent failure.

The Gunners were beaten 2-0 by Newcastle United last night, a result that almost certainly brings an end to their dream of playing in the Champions League next season.

The Gunners had pushed their luck all season considering that Mikel Arteta’s side isn’t as equipped with quality players as Tottenham and Manchester United.

They still gambled on letting Auba leave in January just to rely on the goal-shy Alexandre Lacazette and the inexperienced Eddie Nketiah.

For some weeks, it seemed they could fire Arsenal to a top-four finish, but their last two games have revealed that they are not good enough.

The Daily Mail’s Craig Hope writes in his column: “Tottenham have Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min. Arsenal have Eddie Nketiah, a rookie with nine Premier League goals across five seasons. Out of contract, he will also likely be leaving the club this summer.

That was the hand Mikel Arteta chose to play when, without a replacement, he allowed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to leave for Barcelona in February.”

He adds: “It said much that Alexandre Lacazette – another ready to leave the Emirates – was the saviour they sent for when Newcastle took the lead before the hour. He has two league goals from open play this season, and the last of those was in December.”

Just Arsenal Opinion

Our lack of goals should be blamed if we cannot make the top four at the end of the season.

We should have signed a replacement for Auba when he left the club in January if we are serious about pushing for a place in the top four.

Our decision not to do that has proven a poor one and playing football on Thursday and Sunday night next season will be the price.