The disturbing nightmare became a shocking reality on Sunday when Arsenal were humiliated 8-2 by their fierce rivals Manchester United. The crushing defeat means the Gunners have now only picked up a pitiful two wins from their last 14 league games. To put the result into context Arsenal had previously not conceded eight goals in one match since 1896 and have now endured their worst ever start to a Premier League campaign. Arsene Wenger is under scrutiny like never before and is in real danger of losing his job if performances and results do not rapidly improve. Wenger's odds have now been cut to 7/1 in the Next Premier League Manager To Be Sacked Betting.
Man Utd were ruthless, creative and brimming with confidence on Sunday, in stark contrast to Arsenal who were desperately void of a game plan, belief and a cutting edge. The thrashing will be tough on the London club but will hopefully be the wake-up call Wenger needed. Although it will only be a small minority of Arsenal fans who will want him to leave there is no denying that he is now under extreme pressure unlike anything he has experienced during his 15-year tenure at the club. He must now conjure up something special if Arsenal are going to get their season back on track. With the major priority buying some players in the transfer window before it slams shut on Wednesday night.
It must not be forgotten that Wenger has worked wonders at Arsenal since his arrival in 1996. He has guided them to three Premier League titles, four FA Cups and made them a major force in Europe, and let us not forget The Invincibles of 2003/04. However, those days are long gone and as the cries of ‘You're getting sacked in the morning' echoed around Old Trafford Wenger cut a forlorn figure on the sidelines as he painfully digested the scenes of destruction in front of him. After the game the 61-year-old insisted that he will not quit Arsenal but, the manner of the defeat now transforms the small whisperings of a potential sacking into alarmingly loud chants. Pep Guardiola is currently the 13/2 favourite in the Next Arsenal Manager Betting, with Rafa Benitez the more realistic candidate next in the running at 8/1.
The international break could not have come at a better time for Arsenal. They must now re-cooperate and focus on their game against Swansea at the Emirates Stadium against Swansea City on Saturday 10th September. Stan James have the Gunners as the odds on 4/11 favourites to beat the newly promoted side, with Swansea priced at 8/1 and a draw 3/1.
