Ian Wright:
Arsenal Lost to Bournemouth but Can Still Reach Champions League Final
Ian Wright believes Arsenal can still reach the Champions League final despite their recent mistakes.
Arsenal took the lead against Bournemouth with a goal from Declan Rice but conceded twice from set-pieces in the second half, ultimately losing all three points.
Dominic Solanke scored an uncontested header from an Antoine Semenyo throw-in, while Dango Ouattara added a second from close range after evading Martin Ødegaard from a corner.
Arsenal have now dropped 21 points from winning positions this season, including in their last three home matches. A concerning trend for Mikel Arteta is that his team has conceded from set-pieces in each of their last three home games.
Ian Wright told Premier League Productions: “Both goals were avoidable. I don’t want to blame the players because I know the pressure they’re under, but they must perform better.”
“The defenders weren’t even looking at the players making the runs. It’s bizarre, especially since Arsenal are usually so disciplined defensively. But this season, they’ve struggled with set-pieces.”
“It’s disappointing at this crucial stage. The players are tired, physically and mentally, but they must push through and finish the job.”
When asked if Arsenal can beat Paris Saint-Germain and reach the Champions League final, Wright said: “Yes, they have the ability to do it.”