Hate to channel my inner Sicario, but we lose this tie and it will be hard to not see this season as a step backwards in all directions. At least reaching the quarters again we can hope for a miracle and with injured players returning think we can end the season strongly. It's the hope that kills you...

Bring Back Kerrea Gilbert the general trajectory has been upwards. Even in a bad season, we're still sitting 2nd and with a chance of reaching the CL QFs again. Not to mention it's really difficult to get it right every season when you're competing at the level we are.

My point is, for all that's not gone our way this season, it's not that bad.

    Sicario2 - Tier 1 my point is, regardless of events outside of our control, having a bad season where we perform below our level is just part of normal variance. That it happened when our nearest rival had a meltdown is frustrating but kinda irrelevant to the point I'm making.

    Us limping out the champs league and stinky Spurs winning europa and thus qualifying for champs league would be hellish

      lorddulaarsenal that’s why we need to win a trophy asap.

      Aston Villa have a decent chance of ending their 29 year trophy drought this season (with Emery in charge). Clubs like Bournemouth, Fulham, Palace and Brighton could also win a trophy for the first time in their histories this season. Hell, Newcastle have a fighting chance of winning something for the first time in 70 years this season too.

      We need to wake up soon.

        Arteta and the coaches working hard to keep the mood light ahead of PSV. Probably reading too much into it, but it would suggest the coaches are aware how trying this season has been and that a little relaxation/positivity at this point is needed to keep us light ahead of PSV.

        Sicario2 - Tier 1 so what? None of that changes my perception of us. Whilst it's nice to win stuff, plenty of second rate teams have won the competitions you're talking about.

        I'd argue that if we start to judge our season based on the winners of those trophies, we're probably in a worse spot than we are now (and not a top tier team)!