Whether we finish top of the league or in second place, it will be far more than anyone had predicted last summer. To be here in April with five games to go, thinking there is still a chance we could win the league is beyond unbelievable. We have been here several times before in the last 19 years. We will do well to remember the days the pundits referred to the team as “Wenger’s bunch of nearly men.” It seems that ghost may have come back to haunt us this season. Just days ago we were eight points clear of Manchester City. Slowly and gradually that lead has evaporated like water from a puddle. But, today we confirm a long awaited return to the Champions League! We may yet win the, though that may be more fantasy than an eventuality.

Whatever happens, this team deserves our unconditional support. I have watched with much disgust as fans have made a name and or business for themselves from cussing The Arsenal. They come screaming and frothing like a horse fighting with a bit. The vitriol and viperous nature of the comments makes for toxic viewing. They have done so well that others are copying it. So now it seems to be a commercial art form: having a meltdown and lambasting your team, coach, owner or all of the above. In one of these latest episodes, one fan was seen fuming at his wife. Was all that anger real or part of the show? Who knows. What is for sure is these fans go ballistic whenever the team does not win. Then as soon as the team wins, there’s a complete u-turn. How do you go from “we’re winning league!” to trashing the team? All within the space of a few days.

It is true that we have been through a lot with this team. Many years they flattered only to deceive. Like burning bamboo, their bright blaze fizzled all too quickly. Nonetheless, we have stood by the club throughout all this drought. Now is not the time to throwing up our hands. This is precisely the point at which we need to will the boys forward. A true supporter is revealed when the wagon’s wheels start rocking or are falling off. The Arsenal should know that, we, the loyal fans, are with you to the end: all for one and one for all!

We must now begin to look forward to the next season as we evaluate our performances during 2022/23. No use in spending time cussing and wishing. Squad depth is an obvious issue that is begging to be addressed. With participation in the Champions League now guaranteed, this need becomes even more pressing. Our defensive frailties were laid bare for the world to see last night. Another world class centre back must be priority for Edu and Arteta. Thomas Partey is a concern in light of his performances in the last five games. While Jorginho is a worthy back-up, there is a need for another holding midfielder. This player has to be someone handpicked by Arteta because the position is at the heart of what he’s trying to do. Is Declan Rice the right fit? He’s the one being mentioned quite frequently. If not him, then who?

The over dependence on Saka is a puzzle to me. That along with the gaffers comment about being “loyal to what got us here” does not sit well with me. We are now seeing in Arteta, that streek of stubbornness evident in his mentor, Pep Guardiola. A refusal to adapt the philosophy. Pep is known for his unwillingness to change the team’s philosophy. But, let’s recall the first goal in the game last night. A long ball from Stones up to half-line for Haaland who passes to an onrushing DeBruyne, a move that ends in a goal being scored. Incredible, coming from a man made famous for tiki-taka. The man has evolved! Herein is the message for Mikel Arteta and staff, be willing to adapt, to adjust our tactics. Further to this, all the coaches now see how you approach the games and will be better prepared to meet us in the next season.

The future is bright and hope springs eternal in our hearts. We’re not done yet, we’ve only just begun.