Arsenal's 2-1 win against Udinese at Stadio Friuli was enough to seal a 3-1 aggregate to qualify for the UEFA Champions League group stages. For 11 successive seasons, Monsieur Wenger has qualified for this prestigious tournament and many teams have high regards for the Gunners.
A fortnight to forget for the team, losing against Liverpool and selling two key players, Samir Nasri and Francesc Fabregas to rival teams was a bitter pill to swallow for many Arsenal fans and Wenger himself.
Having been criticised for relying on youth to sustain their challenge in the Premier League, FA Cup, Carling Cup and UEFA Champions League, the win against the Italian led by veteran attacker, Antonio Di Natale was a boost for the team.
Wenger, who according to reports have 90 Million pounds to spend, will be relieved with this win as this will appease the Gunners who have been a mini turmoil since the speculation of Cash-ri's and Barca-regas's transfer started to suffice.
Goals from Theo Walcott and newly appointed captain, Robin Van Persie usurped Antonio Di Natale's opener to guarantee them a place in the group stages. Many were doubting the moral of the team after the demoralizing defeat against Liverpool and Nasri's confirmed transfer to the Etihad Stadium!
However, performances from Wojciech Szcnescny, Gervinho(he is going to be a hit, I'm sure of this!) and Robin Van Persie was enough to prove that the team can move on and with few more signings, the team will be on the right track.
I'm particularly impressed with 'Mad' Scznescny as he saved a penalty and his 4 appearances in the Arsenal jersey this season has been impressive. The 20 year old has matured well and he is going to be in the Arsenal set up for many years to come.
Robin Van Persie is carrying the burden of the team and it may look heavy on him but i'm sure the Dutchmen will come through it. Gervinho and Carl Jenkinson, new signings from Arsenal have impressed but the need for one or two world class players is there if Arsenal wants to break their duck after 6 seasons.
As an Arsenal, I'm happy that they have won against Udinese, and with this momentum, they should give a fight against the class of 2011, Manchester United. United will be taking this tie to the knife as they will be taking advantage of the situation faced by Arsenal now.
It's Wenger's time to prove that he is still in it for the title. Beating Manchester United, would be a morale booster for the team and the fans in particular. Going in with a threadbare squad, the team will have to rely on optimism and hope to beat the Red Devils!
Avinesh's verdict: In WENGER I TRUST!!! In WILSHERE I BELIEVE!!!
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