Arsenal moved off the bottom of the Premier League standings and scored their first goal of the campaign after captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's scrambled 66th-minute effort gave them a 1-0 home win over Norwich City on Saturday.

The result lifted Arsenal to 16th place on three points from four games and left Norwich, who are still looking for their first point of the season, propping up the table.

Mikel Arteta's side produced an improved performance after their opening three defeats but were made to work hard by a rugged Norwich side before Aubameyang, who missed two first-half chances, broke the deadlock.

The result eased some of the pressure off Arsenal manager Arteta, who said a dreadful start to the season had been a blessing in disguise.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-sneak-peek-into-cr7s-gorgeous-over-the-top-house-after-manchester-united-move-see-pics-412391">Cristiano Ronaldo: Sneak peek into CR7's gorgeous over-the-top house after Manchester United move - see pics</a>

"I must say it has been the best 10 or 14 days in my professional career," the Spaniard told the BBC.

"Not the easiest, but the best. You learn a lot in difficult moments, who you are with. Today and the last week everything glided together. We have to improve in a lot of things but today we made seven changes and already it looked different."

Aubameyang fired wide in the 10th minute and was denied in the 20th by a superb save from visiting goalkeeper Tim Krul before Takehiro Tomiyasu volleyed over the bar for the dominant hosts on the stroke of halftime.

A timely intervention by left back Brandon Williams kept out a Nicolas Pepe sitter for Arsenal shortly after the break before the Ivorian played a major role in Aubameyang's goal, given after a VAR check for offside.

Pepe twice hit the post within a few seconds from a flowing move and the second rebound fell kindly to Aubameyang, who was perfectly positioned to tuck the ball into an empty net.

Arsenal missed several chances in the closing stages as Krul parried shots by Aubameyang and substitute Emile Smith-Rowe before Bukayo Saka fired inches wide of the far post.

Aubameyang was delighted the Gunners got their campaign on track, although he conceded they still lacked cutting edge.

"We have to be a bit more clinical in front of goal but everyone gave everything on the pitch," he said.

"When you lose games as players we are the first to be touched inside. We had 10 days to prepare ourselves and to change things and this is what we did. Today we made sure we won this game and took three points."

Arsenal moved off the bottom of the Premier League standings and scored their first goal of the campaign after captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's scrambled 66th-minute effort gave them a 1-0 home win over Norwich City on Saturday.

Arsenal moved off the bottom of the Premier League standings and scored their first goal of the campaign after captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's scrambled 66th-minute effort gave them a 1-0 home win over Norwich City on Saturday. The result lifted Arsenal to 16th place on three points from four games and left Norwich, who are still looking for their first point of the season, propping up the table. Mikel Arteta's side produced an improved performance after their opening three defeats but were made to work hard by a rugged Norwich side before Aubameyang, who missed two first-half chances, broke the deadlock. The result eased some of the pressure off Arsenal manager Arteta, who said a dreadful start to the season had been a blessing in disguise. ALSO READ | Cristiano Ronaldo: Sneak peek into CR7's gorgeous over-the-top house after Manchester United move - see pics "I must say it has been the best 10 or 14 days in my professional career," the Spaniard told the BBC. "Not the easiest, but the best. You learn a lot in difficult moments, who you are with. Today and the last week everything glided together. We have to improve in a lot of things but today we made seven changes and already it looked different." Aubameyang fired wide in the 10th minute and was denied in the 20th by a superb save from visiting goalkeeper Tim Krul before Takehiro Tomiyasu volleyed over the bar for the dominant hosts on the stroke of halftime. A timely intervention by left back Brandon Williams kept out a Nicolas Pepe sitter for Arsenal shortly after the break before the Ivorian played a major role in Aubameyang's goal, given after a VAR check for offside. Pepe twice hit the post within a few seconds from a flowing move and the second rebound fell kindly to Aubameyang, who was perfectly positioned to tuck the ball into an empty net. Arsenal missed several chances in the closing stages as Krul parried shots by Aubameyang and substitute Emile Smith-Rowe before Bukayo Saka fired inches wide of the far post. Aubameyang was delighted the Gunners got their campaign on track, although he conceded they still lacked cutting edge. "We have to be a bit more clinical in front of goal but everyone gave everything on the pitch," he said. "When you lose games as players we are the first to be touched inside. We had 10 days to prepare ourselves and to change things and this is what we did. Today we made sure we won this game and took three points."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang strikes to give Arsenal first league win

Mikel Arteta believes the international break came at the right time for his Arsenal side as they try to overturn a dreadful start to the Premier League season. 
 
A 5-0 hammering at champions Manchester City heading into the break left Arsenal bottom of the table with three defeats from their first three games and no goals scored. 
 
Arteta`s side host fellow strugglers Norwich City on Saturday with the pressure growing on the Spaniard. 
 
However, he believes the two-week pause has given him time to get players back from injury and bed in new signings. 
 
"We needed some break to try and get players back. Hopefully by Saturday we will have a different team," he told a news conference on Thursday. 
 
"We have a completely different squad. It`s unheard of. Now we have to make it work, we have to glide it together, build relationships, chemistry and understanding. We have to do that really quickly." 
 
New signing Ben White is available for Saturday as are Gabriel Magalhaes, Eddie Nketiah and Thomas Partey, although Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka is suspended following his sending off against Manchester City. 
 
"I`m really looking forward to having everyone available and to try start the season the way we want," Arteta said. 
 
"We don`t want to use any excuses. We know how difficult the start was with injuries and COVID issues we had. We have to reset now. We need to get everybody back on track and start to win football games which is what we have to do". 
 
Should Arsenal lose to Norwich it would be the first time they have lost their first four games of a league campaign since 1923, while never in their history have they failed to score a goal in their opening four league games. 
 
Arsenal fans are growing increasingly impatient but Arteta, who replaced fellow Spaniard Unai Emery in December 2019, said that there was a long-term project in place at Arsenal. 
 
"We have tried to explain the project and the decisions that have been made over the last few months. The amount of changes in the past two years is almost 30 players," he said. 
 
"It`s a project that we believed in and we all take responsibility. Now we have to make it work." 
 
Whether he is allowed to continue leading the project will depend very much on Arsenal quickly climbing the table. 
 
"The pressure is always there to be as high as possible in that league table. It`s down to us to provide everything we have," added Arteta. 
 
New Japanese defensive signing Takehiro Tomiyasu`s hopes of making his debut hinge on a work-permit. 
 
"The club is working hard to try and achieve that in the next couple of hours," Arteta said of the player signed for around 18 million pounds ($24.91 million) from Bologna. 
&nbsp;

Mikel Arteta believes the international break came at the right time for his Arsenal side as they try to overturn a dreadful start to the Premier League season. A 5-0 hammering at champions Manchester City heading into the break left Arsenal bottom of the table with three defeats from their first three games and no goals scored.

Mikel Arteta believes the international break came at the right time for his Arsenal side as they try to overturn a dreadful start to the Premier League season. A 5-0 hammering at champions Manchester City heading into the break left Arsenal bottom of the table with three defeats from their first three games and no goals scored. Arteta`s side host fellow strugglers Norwich City on Saturday with the pressure growing on the Spaniard. However, he believes the two-week pause has given him time to get players back from injury and bed in new signings. "We needed some break to try and get players back. Hopefully by Saturday we will have a different team," he told a news conference on Thursday. "We have a completely different squad. It`s unheard of. Now we have to make it work, we have to glide it together, build relationships, chemistry and understanding. We have to do that really quickly." New signing Ben White is available for Saturday as are Gabriel Magalhaes, Eddie Nketiah and Thomas Partey, although Swiss midfielder Granit Xhaka is suspended following his sending off against Manchester City. "I`m really looking forward to having everyone available and to try start the season the way we want," Arteta said. "We don`t want to use any excuses. We know how difficult the start was with injuries and COVID issues we had. We have to reset now. We need to get everybody back on track and start to win football games which is what we have to do". Should Arsenal lose to Norwich it would be the first time they have lost their first four games of a league campaign since 1923, while never in their history have they failed to score a goal in their opening four league games. Arsenal fans are growing increasingly impatient but Arteta, who replaced fellow Spaniard Unai Emery in December 2019, said that there was a long-term project in place at Arsenal. "We have tried to explain the project and the decisions that have been made over the last few months. The amount of changes in the past two years is almost 30 players," he said. "It`s a project that we believed in and we all take responsibility. Now we have to make it work." Whether he is allowed to continue leading the project will depend very much on Arsenal quickly climbing the table. "The pressure is always there to be as high as possible in that league table. It`s down to us to provide everything we have," added Arteta. New Japanese defensive signing Takehiro Tomiyasu`s hopes of making his debut hinge on a work-permit. "The club is working hard to try and achieve that in the next couple of hours," Arteta said of the player signed for around 18 million pounds ($24.91 million) from Bologna.

Arsenal's Mikel Arteta hopes for fresh start after international break

Arsenal striker Bethany Mead scored twice as her side beat champions Chelsea 3-2 in a thrilling match to get their FA Women's Super League season off to a winning start at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.&nbsp;

Vivianne Miedema gave the home side the lead in the 14th minute, latching on to a pass down the left wing from Katie McCabe before firing home low at the far post for her 61st goal in 68 WSL games for Arsenal.

Erin Cuthbert equalised for Chelsea before the break with a goal in the 44th minute.&nbsp;

Arsenal looked to have sealed it with two goals from Mead in the first 15 minutes of the second half, but a brilliantly-timed header by Pernille Harder in the 64th minute set up a grandstand finish.&nbsp;

Chelsea threw everything forward in the closing minutes but despite getting dangerous balls into the box, the closest they came was a Sam Kerr header straight at the keeper.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Manchester City top the table after a 4-0 win over Everton on Saturday with Manchester United second following their 2-0 win over Reading. Arsenal are third.&nbsp;

Brighton &amp; Hove Albion host West Ham United later on Sunday.&nbsp;

Arsenal striker Bethany Mead scored twice as her side beat champions Chelsea 3-2 in a thrilling match to get their FA Women's Super League season off to a winning start at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Arsenal striker Bethany Mead scored twice as her side beat champions Chelsea 3-2 in a thrilling match to get their FA Women's Super League season off to a winning start at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Vivianne Miedema gave the home side the lead in the 14th minute, latching on to a pass down the left wing from Katie McCabe before firing home low at the far post for her 61st goal in 68 WSL games for Arsenal. Erin Cuthbert equalised for Chelsea before the break with a goal in the 44th minute. Arsenal looked to have sealed it with two goals from Mead in the first 15 minutes of the second half, but a brilliantly-timed header by Pernille Harder in the 64th minute set up a grandstand finish. Chelsea threw everything forward in the closing minutes but despite getting dangerous balls into the box, the closest they came was a Sam Kerr header straight at the keeper. Manchester City top the table after a 4-0 win over Everton on Saturday with Manchester United second following their 2-0 win over Reading. Arsenal are third. Brighton & Hove Albion host West Ham United later on Sunday.

Arsenal edge out Chelsea in Women's Super League thriller

AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho encouraged Swiss international Granit Xhaka to get vaccinated after the Arsenal midfielder returned a positive COVID-19 test this week.

The Switzerland captain, 28, was ruled out of Wednesday's friendly with Greece after testing positive for the coronavirus on the day of the game.

A spokesperson for the national team told Swiss newspaper Blick that Xhaka was not vaccinated.

"Get the jab Granit and be safe," Mourinho told Xhaka in a comment on a post on Instagram.&nbsp;

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Xhaka had been linked with a move to Mourinho's Roma in the off-season but British media reported Arsenal had turned down a bid from the Serie A club.

Switzerland will host European champions Italy in their Group C World Cup qualifier on Sunday before taking on Northern Ireland in Belfast on Sept. 9.

AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho encouraged Swiss international Granit Xhaka to get vaccinated after the Arsenal midfielder returned a positive COVID-19 test this week.

AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho encouraged Swiss international Granit Xhaka to get vaccinated after the Arsenal midfielder returned a positive COVID-19 test this week. The Switzerland captain, 28, was ruled out of Wednesday's friendly with Greece after testing positive for the coronavirus on the day of the game. A spokesperson for the national team told Swiss newspaper Blick that Xhaka was not vaccinated. "Get the jab Granit and be safe," Mourinho told Xhaka in a comment on a post on Instagram. ALSO READ | Watch: England footballer's epic on-field response to Raheem Sterling racism incident View this post on Instagram A post shared by Granit Xhaka (@granitxhaka) × Xhaka had been linked with a move to Mourinho's Roma in the off-season but British media reported Arsenal had turned down a bid from the Serie A club. Switzerland will host European champions Italy in their Group C World Cup qualifier on Sunday before taking on Northern Ireland in Belfast on Sept. 9.

'Get the jab': Jose Mourinho urges Granit Xhaka to get COVID-19 vaccine

Arsenal`s Brazil winger Willian is in talks over a potential exit from the Premier League club, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday, adding that more transfer moves were a possibility before the window closes next week. 
 
Willian has struggled for form since arriving at Arsenal from Chelsea last year and has been linked with a transfer to Corinthians in his native Brazil by British media. 
 
"We are having some conversations with him and the agent. We`re evaluating the position we`re in," Arteta told a news conference ahead of Saturday`s league clash at Manchester City. 
 
Arsenal have been among the league`s biggest spenders in the close season, adding Ben White, Martin Odegaard, Aaron Ramsdale, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares. 
 
Arteta, however, said the north London club could strengthen further before the window closes on Tuesday. 
 
"We`ve already done a lot of things. Ins and outs... I think it`s 16, 17 deals in total, with some renewals," Arteta said. "There are still some things to do in the last few days because there are still some question marks and deals that can happen." 
 
Arsenal lost their opening two league games to promoted Brentford and European champions Chelsea, but beat West Bromwich Albion 6-0 in the League Cup second round on Wednesday, despite missing several players due to injury and COVID-19. 
 
Arteta confirmed that White and goalkeeper Alex Runarsson would miss the City match because they had still not recovered from coronavirus and that he had a few other injury concerns. 
 
"(Bukayo Saka) was limping after the (West Brom) match. We`ll see how that knee reacts but he had a knock," Arteta said, adding that Brazil defender Gabriel was inching closer to a return and had begun training with the team. 
&nbsp;

Arsenal`s Brazil winger Willian is in talks over a potential exit from the Premier League club, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday, adding that more transfer moves were a possibility before the window closes next week.

Arsenal`s Brazil winger Willian is in talks over a potential exit from the Premier League club, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday, adding that more transfer moves were a possibility before the window closes next week. Willian has struggled for form since arriving at Arsenal from Chelsea last year and has been linked with a transfer to Corinthians in his native Brazil by British media. "We are having some conversations with him and the agent. We`re evaluating the position we`re in," Arteta told a news conference ahead of Saturday`s league clash at Manchester City. Arsenal have been among the league`s biggest spenders in the close season, adding Ben White, Martin Odegaard, Aaron Ramsdale, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares. Arteta, however, said the north London club could strengthen further before the window closes on Tuesday. "We`ve already done a lot of things. Ins and outs... I think it`s 16, 17 deals in total, with some renewals," Arteta said. "There are still some things to do in the last few days because there are still some question marks and deals that can happen." Arsenal lost their opening two league games to promoted Brentford and European champions Chelsea, but beat West Bromwich Albion 6-0 in the League Cup second round on Wednesday, despite missing several players due to injury and COVID-19. Arteta confirmed that White and goalkeeper Alex Runarsson would miss the City match because they had still not recovered from coronavirus and that he had a few other injury concerns. "(Bukayo Saka) was limping after the (West Brom) match. We`ll see how that knee reacts but he had a knock," Arteta said, adding that Brazil defender Gabriel was inching closer to a return and had begun training with the team.

Willian in talks over Arsenal exit, says Mikel Arteta

Arsenal and Mikel Arteta appeared to be the perfect fit but now the Spanish manager is being assailed by fans across the world, including the President of Rwanda, after the Gunners' worst start to a league season in their 118-year history.

The 39-year-old is being targeted by increasingly disenchanted fans who have turned their ire from unpopular American owner Stan Kroenke on to him.

The boos which emanated from the home stands following Chelsea's 2-0 win on Sunday -- Arteta appeared to be the only person not to hear them, declaring afterwards "I see a lot of positives with the crowd and the team today" -- could reach fever pitch by the end of this week.

Arsenal face a tough League Cup clash at in-form Championship side West Brom on Wednesday and then face Premier League champions Manchester City away on Saturday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpools-swiss-winger-xherdan-shaqiri-joins-lyon-407885">Liverpool's Swiss winger Xherdan Shaqiri joins Lyon</a>

Kroenke at least untied the purse strings in the close season despite the Gunners facing a Europe-free campaign after finishing eighth.

Arteta has so far spent £130 million ($177 million) but an early return of no points and no goals in either of their league games has already got the fans concerned that another season of mid-table mediocrity awaits.

Their disappointment with Arteta is all the greater because of his Gunners' pedigree, something that his predecessor fellow Spaniard Unai Emery lacked.

The former midfielder's experience at having played under Arsenal's legendary manager Arsene Wenger from 2011-16 and serving his managerial apprenticeship under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City marked him down as the ideal candidate.

Arsenal were keen to lure him away from City in 2018 when Wenger left but had to wait till December 2019 to secure him after Emery failed to fire up the side.

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Arteta made a good start, winning the FA Cup in 2020 with victory over Chelsea at Wembley but there has been little to cheer since.

The Spaniard can point to extenuating factors for the disappointing start to this season like losing key players such as Alexandre Lacazette and £50 million signing Ben White due to coronavirus.

He bridled at the scathing assessment last week of the President of Rwanda which is an official sponsor of Arsenal -- "We just must NOT excuse or Accept mediocrity," Paul Kagama tweeted -- but former players believe that is what his team are serving up.

'A cushy life'

Former striker Ian Wright shook his head in bemusement at the latest display against Chelsea -- Arsenal's 20th Premier League defeat in the 60 matches Arteta has taken charge of.

"When you looked at the way that&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;played us and the way (Romelu) Lukaku played, either they (the Arsenal players) are not prepared, they are not listening, or they can’t perform what he (Arteta) wants them to do," he said on BBC's Match of the Day.

"I don't know what the tactics were. For me it was quite frightening."

Sol Campbell, who won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups under Wenger, says Arteta is probably safe for the moment because the club spent so much time and energy on getting him.

However, Campbell is worried by the lack of steelinness in either the defence or midfield, which was painfully exposed by Chelsea.

"Arsenal was built on that type of football, skilful and strong," he told Sky Sports.

"I want to see more of that and more character.

"With Arteta, they have been chasing him for a long, long time. I think they will look at it and say 'let's see what this guy can do' but there is always a time limit."

Roy Keane, not known for his patience as a player, manager or pundit, lays the blame instead at the feet of the senior players.

"I would give him (Arteta) longer, you have to give the manager longer," said Keane.

"Arsenal have a lot of very good, young potential players but it is just potential.

"I don't think Arsenal have the real, top senior quality players who have good habits that will help the young lads.

"There are players at Arsenal on massive wages and you can't shift them.

"They won't want to leave Arsenal because they are settled in London, they have a cushy life."

Arsenal and Mikel Arteta appeared to be the perfect fit but now the Spanish manager is being assailed by fans across the world, including the President of Rwanda, after the Gunners' worst start to a league season in their 118-year history.

Arsenal and Mikel Arteta appeared to be the perfect fit but now the Spanish manager is being assailed by fans across the world, including the President of Rwanda, after the Gunners' worst start to a league season in their 118-year history. The 39-year-old is being targeted by increasingly disenchanted fans who have turned their ire from unpopular American owner Stan Kroenke on to him. The boos which emanated from the home stands following Chelsea's 2-0 win on Sunday -- Arteta appeared to be the only person not to hear them, declaring afterwards "I see a lot of positives with the crowd and the team today" -- could reach fever pitch by the end of this week. Arsenal face a tough League Cup clash at in-form Championship side West Brom on Wednesday and then face Premier League champions Manchester City away on Saturday. ALSO READ | Liverpool's Swiss winger Xherdan Shaqiri joins Lyon Kroenke at least untied the purse strings in the close season despite the Gunners facing a Europe-free campaign after finishing eighth. Arteta has so far spent £130 million ($177 million) but an early return of no points and no goals in either of their league games has already got the fans concerned that another season of mid-table mediocrity awaits. Their disappointment with Arteta is all the greater because of his Gunners' pedigree, something that his predecessor fellow Spaniard Unai Emery lacked. The former midfielder's experience at having played under Arsenal's legendary manager Arsene Wenger from 2011-16 and serving his managerial apprenticeship under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City marked him down as the ideal candidate. Arsenal were keen to lure him away from City in 2018 when Wenger left but had to wait till December 2019 to secure him after Emery failed to fire up the side. ALSO READ | Argentina call up Lionel Messi for World Cup qualifier against Neymar's Brazil Arteta made a good start, winning the FA Cup in 2020 with victory over Chelsea at Wembley but there has been little to cheer since. The Spaniard can point to extenuating factors for the disappointing start to this season like losing key players such as Alexandre Lacazette and £50 million signing Ben White due to coronavirus. He bridled at the scathing assessment last week of the President of Rwanda which is an official sponsor of Arsenal -- "We just must NOT excuse or Accept mediocrity," Paul Kagama tweeted -- but former players believe that is what his team are serving up. 'A cushy life' Former striker Ian Wright shook his head in bemusement at the latest display against Chelsea -- Arsenal's 20th Premier League defeat in the 60 matches Arteta has taken charge of. "When you looked at the way that Chelsea played us and the way (Romelu) Lukaku played, either they (the Arsenal players) are not prepared, they are not listening, or they can’t perform what he (Arteta) wants them to do," he said on BBC's Match of the Day. "I don't know what the tactics were. For me it was quite frightening." Sol Campbell, who won two Premier League titles and two FA Cups under Wenger, says Arteta is probably safe for the moment because the club spent so much time and energy on getting him. However, Campbell is worried by the lack of steelinness in either the defence or midfield, which was painfully exposed by Chelsea. "Arsenal was built on that type of football, skilful and strong," he told Sky Sports. "I want to see more of that and more character. "With Arteta, they have been chasing him for a long, long time. I think they will look at it and say 'let's see what this guy can do' but there is always a time limit." Roy Keane, not known for his patience as a player, manager or pundit, lays the blame instead at the feet of the senior players. "I would give him (Arteta) longer, you have to give the manager longer," said Keane. "Arsenal have a lot of very good, young potential players but it is just potential. "I don't think Arsenal have the real, top senior quality players who have good habits that will help the young lads. "There are players at Arsenal on massive wages and you can't shift them. "They won't want to leave Arsenal because they are settled in London, they have a cushy life."

Premier League: Mikel Arteta under pressure to lead Arsenal out of the wilderness

Christian Pulisic will miss Chelsea's Premier League trip to Arsenal after testing positive for the coronavirus, Blues manager Thomas Tuchel said Friday.

The United States forward missed Chelsea's open training session on Wednesday, and is not available for Sunday's game at the Emirates Stadium as he self-isolates.

But Hakim Ziyech and N'Golo Kante are both back in training, and could yet prove their fitness in time to feature in the clash between the London clubs.

"Christian's absence is unfortunately pretty easy to explain, he had a positive test, and needs to follow the protocols," said Tuchel.

"So he was not in training and is not available for the game."

Ziyech suffered a shoulder injury in Chelsea's penalty shoot-out European Super Cup win over Villarreal, while Kante has been sidelined with an ankle problem.

"Hakim and N'Golo were both in training today (Friday), and did everything to be in training today and had absolutely no problems," Tuchel said. "But they need another more physical, intense training session tomorrow with the team.

"We can decide after that, but right now it seems very positive that both can be in the squad for Sunday."

Chelsea opened their new Premier League campaign with a convincing 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace last weekend.

Christian Pulisic will miss Chelsea's Premier League trip to Arsenal after testing positive for the coronavirus, Blues manager Thomas Tuchel said Friday. The United States forward missed Chelsea's open training session on Wednesday, and is not available for Sunday's game at the Emirates Stadium as he self-isolates.

Christian Pulisic will miss Chelsea's Premier League trip to Arsenal after testing positive for the coronavirus, Blues manager Thomas Tuchel said Friday. The United States forward missed Chelsea's open training session on Wednesday, and is not available for Sunday's game at the Emirates Stadium as he self-isolates. But Hakim Ziyech and N'Golo Kante are both back in training, and could yet prove their fitness in time to feature in the clash between the London clubs. "Christian's absence is unfortunately pretty easy to explain, he had a positive test, and needs to follow the protocols," said Tuchel. "So he was not in training and is not available for the game." Ziyech suffered a shoulder injury in Chelsea's penalty shoot-out European Super Cup win over Villarreal, while Kante has been sidelined with an ankle problem. "Hakim and N'Golo were both in training today (Friday), and did everything to be in training today and had absolutely no problems," Tuchel said. "But they need another more physical, intense training session tomorrow with the team. "We can decide after that, but right now it seems very positive that both can be in the squad for Sunday." Chelsea opened their new Premier League campaign with a convincing 3-0 home win over Crystal Palace last weekend.

Chelsea's Christian Pulisic out of Arsenal match after positive COVID-19 test

Arsenal will not re-evaluate their transfer plans after Friday's Premier League season-opening defeat by Brentford, said manager Mikel Arteta, who insisted he is focussed on improving his current squad.

Arsenal lost 2-0 after Sergi Canos and Christian Norgaard scored a goal each as Brentford celebrated their return to the top-flight after a 74-year absence.

Arsenal were without the attacking duo of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang due to illness, but Arteta said the team was good enough to achieve a different result.

"My focus is on the players that we have - to make them play as well as possible and get the best out of the team, finding the way to win football matches," Arteta told reporters after Friday's match, when asked if the defeat creates an urgency to sign new players.

"We are very clear of what we wanted to do, what our strengths are and where we can improve," he said, adding he does not think the "performance shows anything different to what we've already seen."

Arsenal, who finished eighth last season and failed to qualify for European football, have signed defenders Ben White and Nuno Tavares along with midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga in the summer transfer window but are yet to add fresh attacking firepower.

Arteta said before the game&nbsp;the club was trying to adapt to the demands of "the most difficult transfer market".

Arsenal host London rivals and Champions League holders Chelsea in their next league game on Aug. 22.

Arsenal will not re-evaluate their transfer plans after Friday's Premier League season-opening defeat by Brentford, said manager Mikel Arteta, who insisted he is focussed on improving his current squad.

Arsenal will not re-evaluate their transfer plans after Friday's Premier League season-opening defeat by Brentford, said manager Mikel Arteta, who insisted he is focussed on improving his current squad. Arsenal lost 2-0 after Sergi Canos and Christian Norgaard scored a goal each as Brentford celebrated their return to the top-flight after a 74-year absence. Arsenal were without the attacking duo of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang due to illness, but Arteta said the team was good enough to achieve a different result. "My focus is on the players that we have - to make them play as well as possible and get the best out of the team, finding the way to win football matches," Arteta told reporters after Friday's match, when asked if the defeat creates an urgency to sign new players. "We are very clear of what we wanted to do, what our strengths are and where we can improve," he said, adding he does not think the "performance shows anything different to what we've already seen." Arsenal, who finished eighth last season and failed to qualify for European football, have signed defenders Ben White and Nuno Tavares along with midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga in the summer transfer window but are yet to add fresh attacking firepower. Arteta said before the game the club was trying to adapt to the demands of "the most difficult transfer market". Arsenal host London rivals and Champions League holders Chelsea in their next league game on Aug. 22.

Football - Arsenal not rethinking transfer plans, keen on improving current squad: Arteta

Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday.

The Premier League said it "wholeheartedly supported" the decision, adding that players and match officials will continue to wear a No Room For Racism badge on their shirts.

Players and staff have been taking a knee prior to kickoff since the league returned to action in June last year to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement.

"We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism," the players said in a statement.

"We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all."

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Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said they would continue to work with players, clubs, and&nbsp;football&nbsp;partners to bring about "tangible change" and remove inequality from the sport.

Earlier on Tuesday, the English&nbsp;Football&nbsp;League (EFL) said it would back any players and staff who want to take the knee during the 2021-22 season.

"For over a year, players have made the personal choice to perform this simple act of protest... helping shine a light on these issues in society and continue a conversation that has been heard across the world," the EFL said in a statement.

The EFL will also be promoting a new "Together Against Discrimination" matchday message that will see clubs across its three divisions adopting a unified position reiterating that racism, discrimination and abuse are not welcome in&nbsp;football.

The Championship, League One and League Two all kick off this weekend, while the Premier League begins on Aug. 13 with promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.

Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday.

Players from all 20 Premier League clubs will continue to take the knee ahead of games this season to highlight their opposition to racism, the league said on Tuesday. The Premier League said it "wholeheartedly supported" the decision, adding that players and match officials will continue to wear a No Room For Racism badge on their shirts. Players and staff have been taking a knee prior to kickoff since the league returned to action in June last year to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement. "We feel now, more than ever, it is important for us to continue to take the knee as a symbol of our unity against all forms of racism," the players said in a statement. "We remain resolutely committed to our singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect, and equal opportunities for all." ALSO READ: Tokyo Olympics: American Sydney McLaughlin shatters world record to win women's 400 hurdles Premier League chief executive Richard Masters said they would continue to work with players, clubs, and football partners to bring about "tangible change" and remove inequality from the sport. Earlier on Tuesday, the English Football League (EFL) said it would back any players and staff who want to take the knee during the 2021-22 season. "For over a year, players have made the personal choice to perform this simple act of protest... helping shine a light on these issues in society and continue a conversation that has been heard across the world," the EFL said in a statement. The EFL will also be promoting a new "Together Against Discrimination" matchday message that will see clubs across its three divisions adopting a unified position reiterating that racism, discrimination and abuse are not welcome in football. The Championship, League One and League Two all kick off this weekend, while the Premier League begins on Aug. 13 with promoted Brentford hosting Arsenal.

Football: Premier League players to continue taking the knee next season

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said winger Bukayo Saka is a "strong character" and backed the teenager to overcome the racist abuse directed at him on social media after his miss in England's shootout defeat to Italy in Sunday's Euro 2020 final.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-boris-johnson-set-to-tell-social-media-firms-to-tackle-dark-spaces-of-the-internet-397848" hreflang="en">Football: Boris Johnson set to tell social media firms to tackle 'dark spaces of the internet'</a>

The 19-year-old missed England's final spot-kick after teammates Marcus Rashford, 23, and Jadon Sancho, 21, also failed to convert in the shootout, with all three subsequently subjected to racist abuse online.

The comments prompted a police investigation and brought widespread condemnation.

Arteta told Sky Sports he had spoken to Saka and that was sure that he would be fine.

"He is such a strong character," Arteta added. "He has received a lot of love and support from world football, not only with Arsenal but the national team and the English fans because he doesn't deserve anything like (what) he has been through."

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a meeting with social media companies on Tuesday to ask them to do more in the fight against online abuse.

"... Hopefully the laws will become stronger. I think we're all going to try and make a strong case out of that," Arteta said. "Hopefully, it can have a big impact because it's the moment to put that right."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said winger Bukayo Saka is a "strong character" and backed the teenager to overcome the racist abuse directed at him on social media after his miss in England's shootout defeat to Italy in Sunday's Euro 2020 final.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said winger Bukayo Saka is a "strong character" and backed the teenager to overcome the racist abuse directed at him on social media after his miss in England's shootout defeat to Italy in Sunday's Euro 2020 final. ALSO READ: Football: Boris Johnson set to tell social media firms to tackle 'dark spaces of the internet' The 19-year-old missed England's final spot-kick after teammates Marcus Rashford, 23, and Jadon Sancho, 21, also failed to convert in the shootout, with all three subsequently subjected to racist abuse online. The comments prompted a police investigation and brought widespread condemnation. Arteta told Sky Sports he had spoken to Saka and that was sure that he would be fine. "He is such a strong character," Arteta added. "He has received a lot of love and support from world football, not only with Arsenal but the national team and the English fans because he doesn't deserve anything like (what) he has been through." British Prime Minister Boris Johnson held a meeting with social media companies on Tuesday to ask them to do more in the fight against online abuse. "... Hopefully the laws will become stronger. I think we're all going to try and make a strong case out of that," Arteta said. "Hopefully, it can have a big impact because it's the moment to put that right."

Football: Arsenal's Arteta says Saka strength enough to handle racist abuse

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said the north London club needed changes in the squad to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing season, and added that he was confident the club owners would back him. 
 
Arsenal were knocked out of the second-tier Europa League on Thursday and sit 10th in the Premier League, facing the prospect of no European football for the first time in 25 years. 
 
"The squad needs changing," the Spaniard was quoted as saying in British media before Sunday`s home game against West Bromwich Albion. 
 
"There were already a lot of changes in December, something that has not been done in years, but it tells us where we were. Things are going to have to change and the owners are going to back it up." 
 
Arteta, who guided Arsenal to the FA Cup last season, has come under fire following the team`s poor display but when asked if he believed he could still manage a top side, he said: "Yes." 
 
"We know what has been going on inside here for the last 18 months. We know. We only know, the ones that are here. How we have built that is incredible." 
 
Arsenal, who finished eighth last season, are 14 points behind fourth-placed Leicester City and 31 points behind league leaders Manchester City, with both teams having played a game more than the Londoners. 
 
"Time is catching up right now," Arteta added. "It`s a trend, it`s years now that this has been happening. If the distance and the margins with the rest become too big, then it`s almost impossible to do it."

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said the north London club needed changes in the squad to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing season, and added that he was confident the club owners would back him.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said the north London club needed changes in the squad to turn their fortunes around after a disappointing season, and added that he was confident the club owners would back him. Arsenal were knocked out of the second-tier Europa League on Thursday and sit 10th in the Premier League, facing the prospect of no European football for the first time in 25 years. "The squad needs changing," the Spaniard was quoted as saying in British media before Sunday`s home game against West Bromwich Albion. "There were already a lot of changes in December, something that has not been done in years, but it tells us where we were. Things are going to have to change and the owners are going to back it up." Arteta, who guided Arsenal to the FA Cup last season, has come under fire following the team`s poor display but when asked if he believed he could still manage a top side, he said: "Yes." "We know what has been going on inside here for the last 18 months. We know. We only know, the ones that are here. How we have built that is incredible." Arsenal, who finished eighth last season, are 14 points behind fourth-placed Leicester City and 31 points behind league leaders Manchester City, with both teams having played a game more than the Londoners. "Time is catching up right now," Arteta added. "It`s a trend, it`s years now that this has been happening. If the distance and the margins with the rest become too big, then it`s almost impossible to do it."

Under-fire Arteta says Arsenal squad needs changes

Former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said he hoped manager Mikel Arteta would keep his job after the team crashed out of the Europa League on Thursday following a goalless draw with Villarreal.

The defeat meant Arsenal exited Europe's second-tier club competition with a 2-1 aggregate defeat. The club is ninth in England's Premier League table and could miss out on European&nbsp;football&nbsp;for the first time in 25 years.

Asked whether Arteta retained the backing of the club's supporters, Ljungberg told BT Sport: "There are no fans here so that's difficult to know. I hope he does.

"I'm not going to stand here and say managers should stay or go. Listen, he's a young manager and I hope he will stay. But of course, it's not good enough for Arsenal and it's up to the owners and other people within the club."

Freddie Ljungberg, who took over as interim coach in 2019 after the current Villarreal manager Unai Emery was sacked and briefly assisted Arteta, said he did not understand how the club had crashed out of the competition.

"I'm a bit in shock... I thought Arsenal would definitely go through," Ljungberg added.

Arteta said he was still the right man to lift the spirits of his players.

"I wouldn't be sitting here if I couldn't. You'll see it. It's not about talking, it's about showing it on the pitch," Mikel Arteta said. "I feel the pressure all the time because I want to do as good as I can for the team, the support that I have, and for the fans... I think everybody's job is under scrutiny."

Former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said he hoped manager Mikel Arteta would keep his job after the team crashed out of the Europa League on Thursday following a goalless draw with Villarreal.

Former Arsenal midfielder Freddie Ljungberg said he hoped manager Mikel Arteta would keep his job after the team crashed out of the Europa League on Thursday following a goalless draw with Villarreal. The defeat meant Arsenal exited Europe's second-tier club competition with a 2-1 aggregate defeat. The club is ninth in England's Premier League table and could miss out on European football for the first time in 25 years. Asked whether Arteta retained the backing of the club's supporters, Ljungberg told BT Sport: "There are no fans here so that's difficult to know. I hope he does. "I'm not going to stand here and say managers should stay or go. Listen, he's a young manager and I hope he will stay. But of course, it's not good enough for Arsenal and it's up to the owners and other people within the club." Freddie Ljungberg, who took over as interim coach in 2019 after the current Villarreal manager Unai Emery was sacked and briefly assisted Arteta, said he did not understand how the club had crashed out of the competition. "I'm a bit in shock... I thought Arsenal would definitely go through," Ljungberg added. Arteta said he was still the right man to lift the spirits of his players. "I wouldn't be sitting here if I couldn't. You'll see it. It's not about talking, it's about showing it on the pitch," Mikel Arteta said. "I feel the pressure all the time because I want to do as good as I can for the team, the support that I have, and for the fans... I think everybody's job is under scrutiny."

Freddie Ljungberg says he hopes Mikel Arteta can keep Arsenal job after Europa exit

There have been some tough times for Arsenal since Arsene Wenger ended his long reign as manager in 2018 but there was always something to cling to for the fans, a glimmer of hope despite the nagging sense of decline. 
 
A Europa League final against Chelsea in Unai Emery`s one full season in charge and a fifth-place finish in the Premier League suggested Arsenal were not too far behind.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-renew-bid-to-win-league-as-borussia-dortmund-battle-rb-leipzig-383390" hreflang="en">Bayern Munich renew bid to win league as Borussia Dortmund battle RB Leipzig</a> 
 
Even last season when Arsenal finished eighth in the Premier League, they beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final, a result that vindicated the decision to sack Emery halfway through the campaign and recruit Mikel Arteta. 
 
But after Thursday`s demoralising Europa League semi-final exit against Villarreal turned the lights out on Arsenal`s season, hope is a commodity in extremely short supply. 
 
Arteta described the 2-1 aggregate defeat, after a listless 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium, as a devastating blow and his mood had not lightened the day after. 
 
"Last night, one goal goes in and we are in the final and it`s a different world," the Spaniard said. "But today that world doesn`t look very nice." 
 
He is not wrong. 
 
Arsenal sit ninth in the Premier League and face the prospect of no European football for the first time in 25 years. 
 
The long-running chorus of discontent against American owner Stan Kroenke grows louder with protests before Thursday night`s semi-final. 
 
Arsenal`s squad lacks quality, depth and personality and too much responsibility is being placed on the young shoulders of gems such as Bukayo Saka who will doubtless be on the radar of the Premier League`s top guns this summer. 
 
DOWNWARD SPIRAL 
 
Then there is the question of whether Arteta is the right man to pull Arsenal out of their downward spiral. 
 
It looked a gamble when he left his role as Pep Guardiola`s assistant at Manchester City to return to the club he once captained, but the FA Cup win over Chelsea appeared to have bought him the time needed to put his stamp on the club. 
 
If that was a step in the right direction, the following nine months have seen Arsenal take several back. 
 
The sight of Arteta being tactically outmanoeuvred by fellow Spaniard Emery, now in charge of Villarreal, over both legs of the Europa League semi-final, was described as "embarrassing" by former player Martin Keown. 
 
Huge investment in the squad is required but with no European football to look forward to next season the list of elite players ready to move to the Emirates will not be long. 
 
Arteta remains confident that in the likes of Saka, Emile Smith-Rowe and Kieran Tierney, Arsenal can be optimistic. 
 
"It gives me a lot of confidence because they have shown what they can do," he said. 
 
"But as well they need the right surroundings around for them to grow, without putting too much pressure on them." 
 
To put Arsenal`s grim situation into perspective, it is a sobering thought that two years ago when they lost to Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku they finished only two points behind the Stamford Bridge club. 
 
Two years down the line and Chelsea are in the Champions League final after outclassing Real Madrid in the semi-finals and look set to cement their position in the top-four. 
 
Chelsea`s bold move to sack club great Frank Lampard in January risked alienating the fans. But in German Thomas Tuchel they now have a manager who looks capable of making Chelsea genuine challengers to Manchester City in the coming seasons. 
 
Arteta could yet prove to be the man to turn things round, but his immediate prospects look bleak.

There have been some tough times for Arsenal since Arsene Wenger ended his long reign as manager in 2018 but there was always something to cling to for the fans, a glimmer of hope despite the nagging sense of decline.

There have been some tough times for Arsenal since Arsene Wenger ended his long reign as manager in 2018 but there was always something to cling to for the fans, a glimmer of hope despite the nagging sense of decline. A Europa League final against Chelsea in Unai Emery`s one full season in charge and a fifth-place finish in the Premier League suggested Arsenal were not too far behind. ALSO READ: Bayern Munich renew bid to win league as Borussia Dortmund battle RB Leipzig Even last season when Arsenal finished eighth in the Premier League, they beat Chelsea in the FA Cup final, a result that vindicated the decision to sack Emery halfway through the campaign and recruit Mikel Arteta. But after Thursday`s demoralising Europa League semi-final exit against Villarreal turned the lights out on Arsenal`s season, hope is a commodity in extremely short supply. Arteta described the 2-1 aggregate defeat, after a listless 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium, as a devastating blow and his mood had not lightened the day after. "Last night, one goal goes in and we are in the final and it`s a different world," the Spaniard said. "But today that world doesn`t look very nice." He is not wrong. Arsenal sit ninth in the Premier League and face the prospect of no European football for the first time in 25 years. The long-running chorus of discontent against American owner Stan Kroenke grows louder with protests before Thursday night`s semi-final. Arsenal`s squad lacks quality, depth and personality and too much responsibility is being placed on the young shoulders of gems such as Bukayo Saka who will doubtless be on the radar of the Premier League`s top guns this summer. DOWNWARD SPIRAL Then there is the question of whether Arteta is the right man to pull Arsenal out of their downward spiral. It looked a gamble when he left his role as Pep Guardiola`s assistant at Manchester City to return to the club he once captained, but the FA Cup win over Chelsea appeared to have bought him the time needed to put his stamp on the club. If that was a step in the right direction, the following nine months have seen Arsenal take several back. The sight of Arteta being tactically outmanoeuvred by fellow Spaniard Emery, now in charge of Villarreal, over both legs of the Europa League semi-final, was described as "embarrassing" by former player Martin Keown. Huge investment in the squad is required but with no European football to look forward to next season the list of elite players ready to move to the Emirates will not be long. Arteta remains confident that in the likes of Saka, Emile Smith-Rowe and Kieran Tierney, Arsenal can be optimistic. "It gives me a lot of confidence because they have shown what they can do," he said. "But as well they need the right surroundings around for them to grow, without putting too much pressure on them." To put Arsenal`s grim situation into perspective, it is a sobering thought that two years ago when they lost to Chelsea in the Europa League final in Baku they finished only two points behind the Stamford Bridge club. Two years down the line and Chelsea are in the Champions League final after outclassing Real Madrid in the semi-finals and look set to cement their position in the top-four. Chelsea`s bold move to sack club great Frank Lampard in January risked alienating the fans. But in German Thomas Tuchel they now have a manager who looks capable of making Chelsea genuine challengers to Manchester City in the coming seasons. Arteta could yet prove to be the man to turn things round, but his immediate prospects look bleak.

Hope in short supply for Arsenal

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang said that his family was worried by his sudden weight loss after he contracted malaria in March, and that he was slowly returning to full physical fitness.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tuchel-salutes-chelseas-desire-as-blues-reach-champions-league-final-383130" hreflang="en">Tuchel salutes Chelsea's desire as Blues reach Champions League final</a>

Aubameyang was sidelined for four games after getting malaria while on international duty with Gabon and spent time in a hospital last month before returning in the team's 2-1 defeat by Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final first leg.

"I was feeling just normal, a bit down - I thought that it was the travel," Aubameyang told reporters ahead of the return leg later on Thursday. "Gabon isn't so close to here. I felt tired, especially against Liverpool, but I thought it was because of the travel... I had three days in a row, fever, all day and night. After that, I spoke to the doctor."

After that, he checked into a hospital, where he was treated for three days and lost 4kg.

"It was a bad moment and my family was a bit scared to see me like this," he said. "I'm lucky I got treatment at the right moment; if you don't treat it quickly it can lead to big problems."

Aubameyang scored in his first start since recovering from the illness in Sunday's 2-0 Premier League win over Newcastle United and said he was looking forward to the Villarreal game.

"In my mind, I feel more than 100% but physically maybe I'm not. Hopefully my body will respond as well but definitely in my mind I'm ready," said Aubameyang, who missed three games this season when his mother was ill.

"It's been a bad year, hopefully next year will be different," he said.

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang said that his family was worried by his sudden weight loss after he contracted malaria in March, and that he was slowly returning to full physical fitness.

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang said that his family was worried by his sudden weight loss after he contracted malaria in March, and that he was slowly returning to full physical fitness. ALSO READ: Tuchel salutes Chelsea's desire as Blues reach Champions League final Aubameyang was sidelined for four games after getting malaria while on international duty with Gabon and spent time in a hospital last month before returning in the team's 2-1 defeat by Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final first leg. "I was feeling just normal, a bit down - I thought that it was the travel," Aubameyang told reporters ahead of the return leg later on Thursday. "Gabon isn't so close to here. I felt tired, especially against Liverpool, but I thought it was because of the travel... I had three days in a row, fever, all day and night. After that, I spoke to the doctor." After that, he checked into a hospital, where he was treated for three days and lost 4kg. "It was a bad moment and my family was a bit scared to see me like this," he said. "I'm lucky I got treatment at the right moment; if you don't treat it quickly it can lead to big problems." Aubameyang scored in his first start since recovering from the illness in Sunday's 2-0 Premier League win over Newcastle United and said he was looking forward to the Villarreal game. "In my mind, I feel more than 100% but physically maybe I'm not. Hopefully my body will respond as well but definitely in my mind I'm ready," said Aubameyang, who missed three games this season when his mother was ill. "It's been a bad year, hopefully next year will be different," he said.

Arsenal's Aubameyang slowly returning to full fitness after malaria

Mikel Arteta believes his Arsenal side can take their "biggest step forward" under his management if they end a turbulent season by booking their place in the Europa League final.

The Gunners welcome former manager Unai Emery back to the Emirates Stadium on Thursday for the second leg of their semi-final with Villarreal.

The Spanish side hold a slender 2-1 advantage from the first leg at El Madrigal, where Nicolas Pepe's penalty gave Arsenal what could prove to be a crucial away goal.

If Arsenal win they will almost certainly face Manchester United, who are on the brink of reaching the final in Gdansk after beating Roma 6-2 in the first leg of their tie.

Arsenal have not played Champions League football since 2017 but winning the Europa League would take the club back into the elite competition next season.

Arteta's team won the FA Cup in August at the end of his first season in charge but they have failed to build on that success and are 12 points off the Premier League's top four with just four games remaining.

There is also disquiet among supporters of Arsenal, who were one of six Premier League clubs to sign up to the ill-fated European Super League.

"It's a big moment," Arteta said of the second leg. "Again, not for me but for the club for everything that has happened in the last two years, in the last months.

"All the instability that we've been here with for many different reasons. So, I think it will be really important and our biggest step forward if we are able to be in that final and have the opportunity to win that trophy."

Thousands of Gunners fans vented their anger at US owner Stan Kroenke before the recent defeat to Everton at the Emirates.

With Swedish billionaire Daniel Ek publicly talking about a potential takeover bid, another protest has been mooted ahead of Thursday's match.

Arteta said he had no problems with supporters making their opinions heard but did not want to see a repeat of the disruption by fans that led to the postponement of Manchester United's match against Liverpool at the weekend.

"I think that they have to be able to express themselves and if it's done in a specific way, then they have the right to do it," he said.

"We have to prepare for the game in the best possible way. I wouldn't like to use any excuses. If something happens with that, then I know that the only purpose of the fans is to defend the club and that they want the best for the team. We will try to do the same."

Mikel Arteta believes his Arsenal side can take their "biggest step forward" under his management if they end a turbulent season by booking their place in the Europa League final.

Mikel Arteta believes his Arsenal side can take their "biggest step forward" under his management if they end a turbulent season by booking their place in the Europa League final. The Gunners welcome former manager Unai Emery back to the Emirates Stadium on Thursday for the second leg of their semi-final with Villarreal. The Spanish side hold a slender 2-1 advantage from the first leg at El Madrigal, where Nicolas Pepe's penalty gave Arsenal what could prove to be a crucial away goal. If Arsenal win they will almost certainly face Manchester United, who are on the brink of reaching the final in Gdansk after beating Roma 6-2 in the first leg of their tie. Arsenal have not played Champions League football since 2017 but winning the Europa League would take the club back into the elite competition next season. Arteta's team won the FA Cup in August at the end of his first season in charge but they have failed to build on that success and are 12 points off the Premier League's top four with just four games remaining. There is also disquiet among supporters of Arsenal, who were one of six Premier League clubs to sign up to the ill-fated European Super League. "It's a big moment," Arteta said of the second leg. "Again, not for me but for the club for everything that has happened in the last two years, in the last months. "All the instability that we've been here with for many different reasons. So, I think it will be really important and our biggest step forward if we are able to be in that final and have the opportunity to win that trophy." Thousands of Gunners fans vented their anger at US owner Stan Kroenke before the recent defeat to Everton at the Emirates. With Swedish billionaire Daniel Ek publicly talking about a potential takeover bid, another protest has been mooted ahead of Thursday's match. Arteta said he had no problems with supporters making their opinions heard but did not want to see a repeat of the disruption by fans that led to the postponement of Manchester United's match against Liverpool at the weekend. "I think that they have to be able to express themselves and if it's done in a specific way, then they have the right to do it," he said. "We have to prepare for the game in the best possible way. I wouldn't like to use any excuses. If something happens with that, then I know that the only purpose of the fans is to defend the club and that they want the best for the team. We will try to do the same."

Arteta urges Arsenal to take 'biggest step forward' and reach Europa final

HAS BALE LOAN SPELL BEEN WASTED

Watching Gareth Bale score a stylish hat-trick for Tottenham Hotspur in the 4-0 win over Sheffield United was a bittersweet moment for the club's fans.

The Welshman's return on loan from Real Madrid to the club he lit up during his first spell has been something of a damp squib with former manager Jose Mourinho reluctant to give Bale a regular starting place.

The 32-year-old has still managed nine league goals from eight starts, however, and the way he dispatched his first Premier League hat-trick since 2012 will only add to the sense of frustration amongst the club's fans.

Bale is due to return to Real Madrid at the end of the season but fans will hope that now Mourinho has gone, there could be the possibility of him extending his loan spell.

"I think the decision and the priority right now is to make sure he's happy in training and we get a happy Gareth Bale next week," interim manager Ryan Mason said.

INJURY WOES MOUNT FOR ARSENAL

Arsenal secured a routine 2-0 victory at Newcastle United but an otherwise perfect Sunday afternoon was spoiled by a hamstring injury to center-back David Luiz.

With Kieran Tierney and Alexandre Lacazette yet to train and unlikely to be available for Thursday's season-defining Europa League semi-final second leg against Villarreal, Luiz's loss represents a further blow.

"We're losing big players," Arteta said. "It's a shame because David had made a big effort to be available again after surgery on his knee and today it looks like we lose him again."

HAVERTZ AND WERNER FINALLY COMING GOOD

Kai Havertz has endured a difficult first season at Chelsea since his 75 million pounds ($103.60 million) transfer from Bayer Leverkusen but some tough love from new manager Thomas Tuchel appears to be getting a tune out of the young forward.

Tuchel has not spared Havertz from criticism since he arrived to replace Frank Lampard, but he was full of praise for him after his double in the 2-0 win over Fulham.

Likewise, fellow German Timo Werner is finally prospering at Chelsea and looking much more like the player who scored so routinely for RB Leipzig.

If part of the reasoning for offloading club great Lampard was to hire someone who could get the best out of those two huge investments, it appears to finally be paying off.

EVERTON'S HOME FORM WILL COST THEM EUROPEAN PLACE

A 2-1 home defeat by Aston Villa on Saturday left a huge dent in Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe, but no one should be at all surprised as Goodison Park has become something of a curse for Carlo Ancelotti's team.

They have won only five of their 17 home games this season, losing eight -- a stark contrast to their away form which has yielded 10 wins from 16.

Even Ancelotti appears at a loss to explain it.

"We were in a good momentum and good form and then another bad performance at home. It is a completely different team, a completely different attitude," the Italian said.

"Of course we could do better at home. Away was different. It's all unbelievable -- it's unbelievable the run we had away and it's unbelievable the run we've had at home."

HAS BALE LOAN SPELL BEEN WASTED Watching Gareth Bale score a stylish hat-trick for Tottenham Hotspur in the 4-0 win over Sheffield United was a bittersweet moment for the club's fans.

HAS BALE LOAN SPELL BEEN WASTED Watching Gareth Bale score a stylish hat-trick for Tottenham Hotspur in the 4-0 win over Sheffield United was a bittersweet moment for the club's fans. The Welshman's return on loan from Real Madrid to the club he lit up during his first spell has been something of a damp squib with former manager Jose Mourinho reluctant to give Bale a regular starting place. The 32-year-old has still managed nine league goals from eight starts, however, and the way he dispatched his first Premier League hat-trick since 2012 will only add to the sense of frustration amongst the club's fans. Bale is due to return to Real Madrid at the end of the season but fans will hope that now Mourinho has gone, there could be the possibility of him extending his loan spell. "I think the decision and the priority right now is to make sure he's happy in training and we get a happy Gareth Bale next week," interim manager Ryan Mason said. INJURY WOES MOUNT FOR ARSENAL Arsenal secured a routine 2-0 victory at Newcastle United but an otherwise perfect Sunday afternoon was spoiled by a hamstring injury to center-back David Luiz. With Kieran Tierney and Alexandre Lacazette yet to train and unlikely to be available for Thursday's season-defining Europa League semi-final second leg against Villarreal, Luiz's loss represents a further blow. "We're losing big players," Arteta said. "It's a shame because David had made a big effort to be available again after surgery on his knee and today it looks like we lose him again." HAVERTZ AND WERNER FINALLY COMING GOOD Kai Havertz has endured a difficult first season at Chelsea since his 75 million pounds ($103.60 million) transfer from Bayer Leverkusen but some tough love from new manager Thomas Tuchel appears to be getting a tune out of the young forward. Tuchel has not spared Havertz from criticism since he arrived to replace Frank Lampard, but he was full of praise for him after his double in the 2-0 win over Fulham. Likewise, fellow German Timo Werner is finally prospering at Chelsea and looking much more like the player who scored so routinely for RB Leipzig. If part of the reasoning for offloading club great Lampard was to hire someone who could get the best out of those two huge investments, it appears to finally be paying off. EVERTON'S HOME FORM WILL COST THEM EUROPEAN PLACE A 2-1 home defeat by Aston Villa on Saturday left a huge dent in Everton's hopes of qualifying for Europe, but no one should be at all surprised as Goodison Park has become something of a curse for Carlo Ancelotti's team. They have won only five of their 17 home games this season, losing eight -- a stark contrast to their away form which has yielded 10 wins from 16. Even Ancelotti appears at a loss to explain it. "We were in a good momentum and good form and then another bad performance at home. It is a completely different team, a completely different attitude," the Italian said. "Of course we could do better at home. Away was different. It's all unbelievable -- it's unbelievable the run we had away and it's unbelievable the run we've had at home."

Talking points of this weekend Premier League

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Bukayo Saka's "moment of magic" in Thursday's 2-1 Europa League first-leg defeat by Villarreal, but said his team must not keep relying on the teenage winger to produce game-changing moments.

Arsenal found themselves against the ropes when they trailed 2-0 following goals by Manu Trigueros and Raul Albiol before having Dani Ceballos sent off.

But Saka, one of Arsenal's standout players at the Estadio de la Ceramica, won a penalty that was converted by Nicolas Pepe to give the north London club a lifeline heading into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium next week.

"We needed a moment of magic and he (Saka) produced it again," Arteta told BT Sport. "We are very used to that this season. But that also tells us we need to do much more in other areas. We cannot rely all the time on him."

Arteta said Pepe's penalty could prove to be a pivotal moment in the tie.

"It gives us belief that if we do the right things and we play at our level, we can beat them," he said. "I'm disappointed that we lost the game obviously.

"We had some issues. The fact that we conceded really early affected us. We lost our organization, we were really stretched and there were big differences between the lines that we could not join together with the ball.

"But after the story of the game, I think we have to take it because we are in the tie, we are still alive."

Arsenal, who are 10th in the Premier League with 46 points from 33 games, visit Newcastle United on Sunday.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Bukayo Saka's "moment of magic" in Thursday's 2-1 Europa League first-leg defeat by Villarreal, but said his team must not keep relying on the teenage winger to produce game-changing moments.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hailed Bukayo Saka's "moment of magic" in Thursday's 2-1 Europa League first-leg defeat by Villarreal, but said his team must not keep relying on the teenage winger to produce game-changing moments. Arsenal found themselves against the ropes when they trailed 2-0 following goals by Manu Trigueros and Raul Albiol before having Dani Ceballos sent off. But Saka, one of Arsenal's standout players at the Estadio de la Ceramica, won a penalty that was converted by Nicolas Pepe to give the north London club a lifeline heading into the second leg at the Emirates Stadium next week. "We needed a moment of magic and he (Saka) produced it again," Arteta told BT Sport. "We are very used to that this season. But that also tells us we need to do much more in other areas. We cannot rely all the time on him." Arteta said Pepe's penalty could prove to be a pivotal moment in the tie. "It gives us belief that if we do the right things and we play at our level, we can beat them," he said. "I'm disappointed that we lost the game obviously. "We had some issues. The fact that we conceded really early affected us. We lost our organization, we were really stretched and there were big differences between the lines that we could not join together with the ball. "But after the story of the game, I think we have to take it because we are in the tie, we are still alive." Arsenal, who are 10th in the Premier League with 46 points from 33 games, visit Newcastle United on Sunday.

Arsenal cannot keep relying on Bukayo Saka, says Mikel Arteta

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games.

German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory.

Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project.

The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996.

Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four.

"It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC.

"The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back."

The game produced few chances.

Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar.

Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up.

"The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

"I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium.

An own-goal from Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno handed Everton a 1-0 Premier League win on Friday as around 2,000 fans protested against Gunners owner Stan Kroenke outside the Emirates Stadium. With both sides chasing places in Europe next season, it was Carlo Ancelotti's side who came out on top with a first win in seven games. German keeper Leno turned a Richarlison cross into his own goal in the 76th minute to give the Toffees victory. Arsenal supporters had gathered outside the ground demanding Kroenke stand down after the club's attempt to join the doomed Super League project. The result left Everton in eighth place, three points off the Champions League places after their first league win at Arsenal since 1996. Arsenal are ninth, nine points off the top four. "It was really important to stay attached to the top of the table," Ancelotti told the BBC. "The performance was good. It's all good news tonight and this gives us confidence for the next games. Finally I can say we are back." The game produced few chances. Everton's Gylfi Sigurdsson saw a 30-yard free-kick come back off the crossbar. Arsenal were furious when a second-half penalty, awarded for a foul by Richarlison on Dani Ceballos, was overturned by VAR for an offside in the build-up. "The penalty is clear, those decisions have been made after, I don't know how or who by, we cannot see their faces to explain it," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. "I can see the images 20 times and I don't get it."

Everton victory compounds Arsenal misery as fans protest

Arsenal's owners and the club's chief executive have apologised to the players for any disruptions caused by the club's involvement in the botched breakaway attempt to form a European Super League, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday.

Arsenal were among six Premier League clubs who signed up for the Super League project before withdrawing amid what Arteta described as a "big tsunami" of protest that killed the plan involving 12 of Europe's top clubs as founder members.

"I found out just a little bit before the news was leaked," Arteta told a news conference ahead of Friday's Premier League game at home to Everton. "Then everything was completely out of control and the world reacted in a really unified manner.

"I didn't really have time to think about it, reflect, evaluate or anything because by the time it was out, a big tsunami already came on to it and basically killed it."

The Spaniard added Arsenal's owner Stan Kroenke, CEO Vinai Venkatesham and other figures at the London club involved in the Super League plan had apologised to the players and himself.

"All of them... (accept)... that the way it's been handled has had terrible consequences and that it was a mistake," Arteta said.

"Speaking for myself and I think the players, staff, everybody working at the club, we have to accept that and move on. The way it's been handled has been really good internally."

Arsenal, who are ninth in the table, one place and three points below Everton who have a game in hand, will be missing their leading strikers Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (malaria) and Alexandre Lacazette (hamstring).

With defenders David Luiz and Kieran Tierney also out with knee problems, Arteta is hoping his side can pull off a morale-boosting victory without adding to their injury list.

"We had so many injuries in recent weeks that put the team in a difficult position but the other players are reacting well, the team is performing well and let's go and win," he said.

"That is the best medicine, always, for everything that happens: win&nbsp;football&nbsp;matches."

&nbsp;

Arsenal's owners and the club's chief executive have apologised to the players for any disruptions caused by the club's involvement in the botched breakaway attempt to form a European Super League, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday.

Arsenal's owners and the club's chief executive have apologised to the players for any disruptions caused by the club's involvement in the botched breakaway attempt to form a European Super League, manager Mikel Arteta said on Thursday. Arsenal were among six Premier League clubs who signed up for the Super League project before withdrawing amid what Arteta described as a "big tsunami" of protest that killed the plan involving 12 of Europe's top clubs as founder members. "I found out just a little bit before the news was leaked," Arteta told a news conference ahead of Friday's Premier League game at home to Everton. "Then everything was completely out of control and the world reacted in a really unified manner. "I didn't really have time to think about it, reflect, evaluate or anything because by the time it was out, a big tsunami already came on to it and basically killed it." The Spaniard added Arsenal's owner Stan Kroenke, CEO Vinai Venkatesham and other figures at the London club involved in the Super League plan had apologised to the players and himself. "All of them... (accept)... that the way it's been handled has had terrible consequences and that it was a mistake," Arteta said. "Speaking for myself and I think the players, staff, everybody working at the club, we have to accept that and move on. The way it's been handled has been really good internally." Arsenal, who are ninth in the table, one place and three points below Everton who have a game in hand, will be missing their leading strikers Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (malaria) and Alexandre Lacazette (hamstring). With defenders David Luiz and Kieran Tierney also out with knee problems, Arteta is hoping his side can pull off a morale-boosting victory without adding to their injury list. "We had so many injuries in recent weeks that put the team in a difficult position but the other players are reacting well, the team is performing well and let's go and win," he said. "That is the best medicine, always, for everything that happens: win football matches."

Arsenal owner, CEO apologised to team for Super League fiasco - Mikel Arteta

Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he &nbsp;played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation.

Club captain Aubameyang signed a lucrative new three-year contract last year but has struggled for form this season and was dropped for last month's north London derby after arriving late.

The Gabon international, 31, has scored just nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances this season compared with 22 goals last term.

His situation at the Emirates has been compared with that of Ozil, who under-performed despite being on huge wages before eventually being exiled by Arteta.

The Arsenal boss, though, said he did not see the merits of comparing the two cases.&nbsp;

"I'm always positive about the future but once you think about things that happen in the past or compare different situations and personalities, I won't do that," he said.

Asked whether Aubameyang was committed to the Gunners' cause, Arteta, whose side are languishing in mid-table in the English top-flight, added: "Totally."

The forward came on as a late second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash on Thursday, setting up Nicolas Pepe's goal.

Arteta was pleased with Aubameyang's impact off the bench.

"In the Europa League everyone has contributed in different ways, the whole squad has been involved and yesterday's role for him (was) he was sat on the bench and to make an impact and he made an impact," said the Spaniard.

"He assisted Nico and should have scored a tap-in with his left foot and that's what the players have to do when they come in."

Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation.

Mikel Arteta says striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is "totally" committed to Arsenal even though he has been in and out of the team and he played down comparisons with the Mesut Ozil situation. Club captain Aubameyang signed a lucrative new three-year contract last year but has struggled for form this season and was dropped for last month's north London derby after arriving late. The Gabon international, 31, has scored just nine goals in 25 Premier League appearances this season compared with 22 goals last term. His situation at the Emirates has been compared with that of Ozil, who under-performed despite being on huge wages before eventually being exiled by Arteta. The Arsenal boss, though, said he did not see the merits of comparing the two cases. "I'm always positive about the future but once you think about things that happen in the past or compare different situations and personalities, I won't do that," he said. Asked whether Aubameyang was committed to the Gunners' cause, Arteta, whose side are languishing in mid-table in the English top-flight, added: "Totally." The forward came on as a late second-half substitute in the 1-1 draw with Slavia Prague in the Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash on Thursday, setting up Nicolas Pepe's goal. Arteta was pleased with Aubameyang's impact off the bench. "In the Europa League everyone has contributed in different ways, the whole squad has been involved and yesterday's role for him (was) he was sat on the bench and to make an impact and he made an impact," said the Spaniard. "He assisted Nico and should have scored a tap-in with his left foot and that's what the players have to do when they come in."

Arteta says Aubameyang is 'totally' committed to Arsenal

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie.

But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague.

"The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport.

"We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game."

He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise.

"They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again."

Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League.

They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight.

Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench.

Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor.

The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header.

The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right.

Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick.

<h2>- Lacazette miss -</h2>

Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat.

The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar.

Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide.

Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar.

The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper.

Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind.

The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday.

Slavia Prague stole an away goal deep into stoppage time against wasteful Arsenal to earn a 1-1 draw and gain the upper hand in their Europa League quarter-final tie on Thursday. Substitute Nicolas Pepe had broken the deadlock for Arsenal in the 86th minute after a night of glaring misses for the home side in the first leg of the tie. But Tomas Holes headed in a last-gasp equaliser to demoralise Mikel Arteta's men and leave the contest finely poised ahead of next week's return leg in Prague. "The game is under control, we had got the goal we wanted, but we put ourselves on the back foot," a frustrated Arteta told BT Sport. "We conceded a corner, they put bodies in the box and anything can happen. Of course it changes the feeling after the game." He said his late substitutions changed the contest but his side did not capitalise. "They are a good opponent and really difficult to play against," he added. "Now we need to go there and win the game. We've done it in the past and we're sure we can do it again." Arsenal are realistically out of the running to finish in the top four of the Premier League, meaning they must win the second-tier European League to reach next season's Champions League. They came into the match at the Emirates after a chastening 3-0 defeat against Liverpool last weekend left them stuck in mid-table in the English top-flight. Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were passed fit to start but captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was dropped to the bench. Saka, who missed the Liverpool defeat, was a regular threat down the Arsenal right but his delivery into the box was poor. The England international missed a golden chance to break the deadlock when he steered wide with only goalkeeper Ondrej Kolar to beat and Rob Holding forced a fine save with a header. The visitors' only real chance of the opening period came when Lukas Provod fired just over following a Slavia raid down the right. Arsenal came agonisingly close to taking the lead early in the second half when Willian -- still seeking his first goal for the club -- struck the outside of the post from a free-kick. - Lacazette miss - Just after the hour mark Arsenal should have been ahead when forward Alexandre Lacazette stole the ball from the last defender near the half-way line and charged forward with only the goalkeeper to beat. The France international opened up his body and looked certain to score but overhit his shot and it came back off the crossbar. Arteta shook his team up with a number of substitutions, throwing on Aubameyang, Pepe and Mohamed Elneny together in the 78th minute and it almost reaped immediate dividends but Aubameyang steered wide. Suddenly Arsenal were playing with more the tempo and substitute Gabriel Martinelli forced a fine save from Kolar. The home side finally got the breakthrough they deserved when Aubameyang fed the ball to club-record signing Pepe, who raced into the box and dinked the ball over the goalkeeper. Arsenal looked set to travel to the away leg with the advantage but the Czechs, who had seen off Leicester and Rangers in previous rounds, poured forward and Leno turned a Provod shot onto the post and behind. The resulting corner made its way through to Holes, who stooped to head home at the back post in the 93rd minute.

Last-gasp Slavia leave Arsenal's Europa League hopes in balance

Manchester United head to Spanish surprise package Granada while Arsenal take on Slavia Prague, but Ajax against Roma may be the tie of the round.

AFP Sport looks ahead to the Europa League quarter-finals ahead of the first legs on Thursday at 1900 GMT:

<h2>- Emery the Europa League expert -</h2>

Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v Villarreal (ESP)

Unai Emery won the Europa League in three consecutive years with Sevilla and took Arsenal to the 2019 final. When he was appointed by Villarreal last summer he said he dreamed of winning a trophy with a club that has been one of the most consistent in Spain in the last 15 years, with nine top-five finishes in La Liga. There have been four European semi-finals too, but they have never won a major trophy or reached a final.

With Emery, they are currently sixth in La Liga and have been excellent in Europe, cruising through their group before eliminating Red Bull Salzburg and Dynamo Kiev. Now they face perennial Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb who are enjoying their best European run since the 1960s after stunning Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspur in the last 16.

Croatian international Mislav Orsic is the man to watch after his brilliant hat-trick did for Spurs.

<h2>- Ajax eyeing another final -</h2>

Ajax (NED) v Roma (ITA)

On paper this is the tie of round, as the runaway Dutch league leaders welcome visitors from Serie A to Amsterdam for the first leg.

Four-time European champions Ajax are enjoying another deep run in continental competition soon after reaching the Europa League final in 2017 and the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. Erik ten Hag was in charge two years ago and is still at the helm now with Ajax beating Lille and Young Boys after dropping out of the Champions League in the group stage.

Roma's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League from Serie A have been hit by a slump in form so the opportunity to get there by winning this competition should not be sniffed at. They have already eliminated Braga and Shakhtar Donetsk in the knockout rounds.

<h2>- Slavia threat for Arsenal -</h2>

Arsenal (ENG) v Slavia Prague (CZE)

For the second year running Arsenal's poor league form under Mikel Arteta has left them looking to cup competitions for success. FA Cup winners last year, the Gunners' only hope of silverware this season is in the Europa League, and this competition -- in which they reached the 2019 final -- almost certainly offers their best chance of returning to the Champions League next season.

After winning all six group games and then edging Benfica and Olympiakos, Arsenal can nevertheless not afford to take Slavia Prague lightly. The Czech champions are on a 21-game unbeaten run which includes knocking Leicester City and Rangers out of Europe.

The latter tie was marred by accusations by Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara that he was racially abused by Slavia centre-back Ondrej Kudela, who will miss Thursday's game in London with what his club described as "a bruised nose" and "high fever".

<h2>- Man Utd too strong for Granada? -</h2>

Granada (ESP) v Manchester United (ENG)

United shrugged off the disappointment of being knocked out of the Champions League in the group stage to claim impressive wins against Real Sociedad and AC Milan in the Europa League.

The Old Trafford side are chasing a first trophy since winning this competition in 2017 and on paper they should be too strong for Granada, even if Anthony Martial is out injured and Eric Bailly has tested positive for Covid-19.

Granada have slumped to ninth in La Liga but have enjoyed a brilliant debut European campaign, notably beating PSV Eindhoven away in the group stage and eliminating Napoli in the last 32 before defeating United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's old club Molde of Norway in the round of 16.

"On Thursday we are going to play one of the most important matches in our history," said Granada coach Diego Martinez, who won the Europa League during his time as an assistant coach to Emery at Sevilla.

Manchester United head to Spanish surprise package Granada while Arsenal take on Slavia Prague, but Ajax against Roma may be the tie of the round. AFP Sport looks ahead to the Europa League quarter-finals ahead of the first legs on Thursday at 1900 GMT: - Emery the Europa League expert - Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v Villarreal (ESP) Unai Emery won the Europa League in three consecutive years with Sevilla and took Arsenal to the 2019 final.

Manchester United head to Spanish surprise package Granada while Arsenal take on Slavia Prague, but Ajax against Roma may be the tie of the round. AFP Sport looks ahead to the Europa League quarter-finals ahead of the first legs on Thursday at 1900 GMT: - Emery the Europa League expert - Dinamo Zagreb (CRO) v Villarreal (ESP) Unai Emery won the Europa League in three consecutive years with Sevilla and took Arsenal to the 2019 final. When he was appointed by Villarreal last summer he said he dreamed of winning a trophy with a club that has been one of the most consistent in Spain in the last 15 years, with nine top-five finishes in La Liga. There have been four European semi-finals too, but they have never won a major trophy or reached a final. With Emery, they are currently sixth in La Liga and have been excellent in Europe, cruising through their group before eliminating Red Bull Salzburg and Dynamo Kiev. Now they face perennial Croatian champions Dinamo Zagreb who are enjoying their best European run since the 1960s after stunning Jose Mourinho's Tottenham Hotspur in the last 16. Croatian international Mislav Orsic is the man to watch after his brilliant hat-trick did for Spurs. - Ajax eyeing another final - Ajax (NED) v Roma (ITA) On paper this is the tie of round, as the runaway Dutch league leaders welcome visitors from Serie A to Amsterdam for the first leg. Four-time European champions Ajax are enjoying another deep run in continental competition soon after reaching the Europa League final in 2017 and the Champions League semi-finals in 2019. Erik ten Hag was in charge two years ago and is still at the helm now with Ajax beating Lille and Young Boys after dropping out of the Champions League in the group stage. Roma's hopes of qualifying for the Champions League from Serie A have been hit by a slump in form so the opportunity to get there by winning this competition should not be sniffed at. They have already eliminated Braga and Shakhtar Donetsk in the knockout rounds. - Slavia threat for Arsenal - Arsenal (ENG) v Slavia Prague (CZE) For the second year running Arsenal's poor league form under Mikel Arteta has left them looking to cup competitions for success. FA Cup winners last year, the Gunners' only hope of silverware this season is in the Europa League, and this competition -- in which they reached the 2019 final -- almost certainly offers their best chance of returning to the Champions League next season. After winning all six group games and then edging Benfica and Olympiakos, Arsenal can nevertheless not afford to take Slavia Prague lightly. The Czech champions are on a 21-game unbeaten run which includes knocking Leicester City and Rangers out of Europe. The latter tie was marred by accusations by Rangers midfielder Glen Kamara that he was racially abused by Slavia centre-back Ondrej Kudela, who will miss Thursday's game in London with what his club described as "a bruised nose" and "high fever". - Man Utd too strong for Granada? - Granada (ESP) v Manchester United (ENG) United shrugged off the disappointment of being knocked out of the Champions League in the group stage to claim impressive wins against Real Sociedad and AC Milan in the Europa League. The Old Trafford side are chasing a first trophy since winning this competition in 2017 and on paper they should be too strong for Granada, even if Anthony Martial is out injured and Eric Bailly has tested positive for Covid-19. Granada have slumped to ninth in La Liga but have enjoyed a brilliant debut European campaign, notably beating PSV Eindhoven away in the group stage and eliminating Napoli in the last 32 before defeating United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's old club Molde of Norway in the round of 16. "On Thursday we are going to play one of the most important matches in our history," said Granada coach Diego Martinez, who won the Europa League during his time as an assistant coach to Emery at Sevilla.

Man Utd, Arsenal set for Europa League quarters

Arsenal defender David Luiz will be out of action for quite a while after sustaining a knee injury that will require surgery, manager Mikel Arteta said.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aubameyangs-patchy-form-not-linked-to-new-contract-says-arsenals-arteta-375184" hreflang="en">Aubameyang's patchy form not linked to new contract, says Arsenal's Arteta</a>

"There are a few possibilities - being a little bit more conservative on the treatment, or having to go through surgery," Arteta said.

"We are talking with the doctors right now to make the right decision on that, but looks like he will be out for a few weeks at least.

"It depends on what decision we will take. If it's more conservative it will be short-term, if it's a little bit more radical what he needs, obviously it will take longer."

Luiz played the complete 90 minutes of a 3-3 draw with West Ham United before the international break but missed Saturday's 3-0 home defeat by Liverpool after discomfort in his right knee.

The 33-year-old is in the final year of his Gunners contract and has featured in 29 games this season.&nbsp;

Arteta also said full-back Kieran Tierney, who was forced off with a knee problem just before half-time against the Premier League champions, is a doubt for the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final against Slavia Prague on Thursday.

"He felt something in his knee and he was in pain so it looks like he will be injured, but we don't know for how long," the Spanish coach added.

(Inputs from Reuters)

Arsenal defender David Luiz will be out of action for quite a while after sustaining a knee injury that will require surgery, manager Mikel Arteta said. ALSO READ: Aubameyang's patchy form not linked to new contract, says Arsenal's Arteta "There are a few possibilities - being a little bit more conservative on the treatment, or having to go through surgery," Arteta said.

Arsenal defender David Luiz will be out of action for quite a while after sustaining a knee injury that will require surgery, manager Mikel Arteta said. ALSO READ: Aubameyang's patchy form not linked to new contract, says Arsenal's Arteta "There are a few possibilities - being a little bit more conservative on the treatment, or having to go through surgery," Arteta said. "We are talking with the doctors right now to make the right decision on that, but looks like he will be out for a few weeks at least. "It depends on what decision we will take. If it's more conservative it will be short-term, if it's a little bit more radical what he needs, obviously it will take longer." Luiz played the complete 90 minutes of a 3-3 draw with West Ham United before the international break but missed Saturday's 3-0 home defeat by Liverpool after discomfort in his right knee. The 33-year-old is in the final year of his Gunners contract and has featured in 29 games this season. Arteta also said full-back Kieran Tierney, who was forced off with a knee problem just before half-time against the Premier League champions, is a doubt for the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final against Slavia Prague on Thursday. "He felt something in his knee and he was in pain so it looks like he will be injured, but we don't know for how long," the Spanish coach added. (Inputs from Reuters)

'He will be out for few weeks at least': Mikel Arteta on David Luiz's knee injury

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's struggles in front of goal are not linked to the new contract he signed in September and hopes the Gabon striker will soon rediscover his best form.

Aubameyang netted 29 and 31 goals in the last two seasons and inked a new three-year deal after firing Arsenal to the FA Cup trophy. But this season he's managed just 14 goals from 31 games in all competitions.

"It is easy to connect things like that, but I am not suspicious of that," Arteta said when asked about the link between the 31-year-old's performance and his new deal.

"We have had conversations about what he wanted to do from last year's point of view to his near future in the next two years, and he was ambitious with that.

"To maintain that level is complicated but he is trying his best."

Aubameyang's campaign has been disrupted by injuries and off-field issues, but he has seen improvement in recent weeks, netting nine times in his last 15 games.

Arteta said it was important for Aubameyang to end the campaign on a positive note.

"We talked about the ratio of goals we need him to score to give us the best chance of being at the top," he added. "It has not been what it has been in recent years and it's contributed to by a lot of things. It is not just his thing.

"We need Auba in different form in the next games to give us our best chance to finish where we want to finish."

Arsenal, who are ninth in the standings, host champions Liverpool later on Saturday.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's struggles in front of goal are not linked to the new contract he signed in September and hopes the Gabon striker will soon rediscover his best form.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's struggles in front of goal are not linked to the new contract he signed in September and hopes the Gabon striker will soon rediscover his best form. Aubameyang netted 29 and 31 goals in the last two seasons and inked a new three-year deal after firing Arsenal to the FA Cup trophy. But this season he's managed just 14 goals from 31 games in all competitions. "It is easy to connect things like that, but I am not suspicious of that," Arteta said when asked about the link between the 31-year-old's performance and his new deal. "We have had conversations about what he wanted to do from last year's point of view to his near future in the next two years, and he was ambitious with that. "To maintain that level is complicated but he is trying his best." Aubameyang's campaign has been disrupted by injuries and off-field issues, but he has seen improvement in recent weeks, netting nine times in his last 15 games. Arteta said it was important for Aubameyang to end the campaign on a positive note. "We talked about the ratio of goals we need him to score to give us the best chance of being at the top," he added. "It has not been what it has been in recent years and it's contributed to by a lot of things. It is not just his thing. "We need Auba in different form in the next games to give us our best chance to finish where we want to finish." Arsenal, who are ninth in the standings, host champions Liverpool later on Saturday.

Aubameyang's patchy form not linked to new contract, says Arsenal's Arteta

Arsenal player Willian feels that Mikel Arteta is the right man to bring back glory days for the Gunners and said that the club has all tools to achieve it.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-legend-thierry-henry-quits-social-media-to-fight-racism-online-bullying-373474" hreflang="en">Football legend Thierry Henry quits social media to fight racism, online bullying</a>

"I think it has the potential to be a great project, it's a great club, it's in the hands of a good manager, he has everything to become one of the best managers in the world," Willian told ESPN Brazil.

"Arsenal has everything to become a powerhouse again, to fight for titles, to play in the Champions League again, that's what we players want.

Arsenal are currently ninth in the Premier League and their title defence at the FA Cup after Southampton beat the London Club in the fourth round. However, Willian is confident they are on the right track.

"Arteta is doing a great job, he is always looking for the players in the best possible way, giving them ideas, guiding them, showing them what he wants. Arsenal is in good hands."

Former Chelsea star was off to a poor start with the Gunners but looks like he found some form after having four assists in his last five appearances in all competitions.

"I never stopped training, to work, to dedicate myself as much as possible," he said. "It took a little while, but in the last few games I've been playing well so I'm happy."

Arsenal player Willian feels that Mikel Arteta is the right man to bring back glory days for the Gunners and said that the club has all tools to achieve it. ALSO READ: Football legend Thierry Henry quits social media to fight racism, online bullying "I think it has the potential to be a great project, it's a great club, it's in the hands of a good manager, he has everything to become one of the best managers in the world," Willian told ESPN Brazil.

Arsenal player Willian feels that Mikel Arteta is the right man to bring back glory days for the Gunners and said that the club has all tools to achieve it. ALSO READ: Football legend Thierry Henry quits social media to fight racism, online bullying "I think it has the potential to be a great project, it's a great club, it's in the hands of a good manager, he has everything to become one of the best managers in the world," Willian told ESPN Brazil. "Arsenal has everything to become a powerhouse again, to fight for titles, to play in the Champions League again, that's what we players want. Arsenal are currently ninth in the Premier League and their title defence at the FA Cup after Southampton beat the London Club in the fourth round. However, Willian is confident they are on the right track. "Arteta is doing a great job, he is always looking for the players in the best possible way, giving them ideas, guiding them, showing them what he wants. Arsenal is in good hands." Former Chelsea star was off to a poor start with the Gunners but looks like he found some form after having four assists in his last five appearances in all competitions. "I never stopped training, to work, to dedicate myself as much as possible," he said. "It took a little while, but in the last few games I've been playing well so I'm happy."

'Arteta is doing great job': Willian feels Arsenal on track to become powerhouse

Paul Pogba scored the winner on his return from injury as Manchester United beat AC Milan 1-0 on Thursday to join Arsenal in the Europa League quarter-finals, while Dinamo Zagreb knocked out Tottenham Hotspur after extra time in Croatia.

The France midfielder struck the only goal at the San Siro four minutes after replacing Marcus Rashford as a half-time substitute, scooping home after an ugly scramble inside the Milan area.

United goalkeeper Dean Henderson produced an excellent reflex save to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic an equaliser against his old club and secure a 2-1 aggregate victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team.

"We've come through a very difficult tie against a fantastic club and we've overcome some difficulties," Solskjaer told BT Sport.

"We've missed Paul, he's been out for almost two months. He was just getting into his best form. He's going to give us a big boost for the rest of the season."&nbsp;

The three-time European champions are one of two English clubs in Friday's draw for the last eight, as Arsenal also qualified despite suffering a 1-0 loss to Olympiakos in the second leg.

Youssef El-Arabi's deflected second-half strike earned Olympiakos another victory at the Emirates but Arsenal advanced 3-2 on aggregate, avenging their exit to the Greeks on away goals last season.

"Really happy to be through. We had a tough opponent, so happy to be through. Sometimes we have to be fair with ourselves -- we were nowhere near the levels we could be," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

Jose Mourinho's Spurs crashed out of the competition after surrendering a 2-0 lead from the first leg, with Dinamo forward Mislav Orsic scoring a brilliant hat-trick for the Croatian champions.&nbsp;

Dinamo coach Zoran Mamic resigned this week after being sentenced to four years and eight months in jail for multi-million euro fraud involving Luka Modric's move to Tottenham and other transfers.

However, Orsic curled in a marvellous shot from the corner of the area to give Dinamo the lead on 62 minutes and then capped off a fine move with a thumping finish to send the match to extra time.

Orsic completed his treble in style as he ran past three players and hammered a low drive beyond Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris from the edge of the box on 106 minutes.

Harry Kane nearly snatched a late goal that would have put Spurs through on away goals but his effort was clawed out by Dinamo goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic as the hosts won 3-2 on aggregate.

<h2>- 'Basics of life' -</h2>

"My team didn't bring to the game the basics of football or life –- to respect our jobs and give everything. I can only apologise to the Tottenham supporters," said Mourinho.

"If I forget the last 10 minutes of extra time, where we did something to get a different result, the 90 minutes and first half of extra time was one team leaving everything on the pitch.

"My team didn't look like it was playing an important match. Another attitude is needed. To say I feel sad is not enough. What I feel is much more than sadness."

Steven Gerrard's Rangers finished with nine men in a 2-0 home loss to Slavia Prague, as the Czech side won 3-1 on aggregate.

Peter Olayinka gave Slavia an early lead at Ibrox and Rangers' hopes of a comeback suffered a double blow with Kemar Roofe and then Leon Balogun sent off for the Scottish champions in the second half.

Nicolae Stanciu's free-kick immediately after Balogun's dismissal ensured victory for Slavia.

Ajax made sure of their passage into the next round as a David Neres goal and Dusan Tadic penalty rounded off a 5-0 aggregate win over Young Boys.

Gerard Moreno's double in Spain gave Villarreal a second 2-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev in as many weeks, while Granada extended their debut run in Europe, going through 3-2 overall despite a 2-1 loss to Norway's Molde in Budapest.

Roma also progressed as a 2-1 victory courtesy of two goals from Real Madrid loanee Borja Mayoral against Shakhtar Donetsk in Kiev wrapped up a 5-1 win on aggregate.

Paul Pogba scored the winner on his return from injury as Manchester United beat AC Milan 1-0 on Thursday to join Arsenal in the Europa League quarter-finals, while Dinamo Zagreb knocked out Tottenham Hotspur after extra time in Croatia.

Paul Pogba scored the winner on his return from injury as Manchester United beat AC Milan 1-0 on Thursday to join Arsenal in the Europa League quarter-finals, while Dinamo Zagreb knocked out Tottenham Hotspur after extra time in Croatia. The France midfielder struck the only goal at the San Siro four minutes after replacing Marcus Rashford as a half-time substitute, scooping home after an ugly scramble inside the Milan area. United goalkeeper Dean Henderson produced an excellent reflex save to deny Zlatan Ibrahimovic an equaliser against his old club and secure a 2-1 aggregate victory for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's team. "We've come through a very difficult tie against a fantastic club and we've overcome some difficulties," Solskjaer told BT Sport. "We've missed Paul, he's been out for almost two months. He was just getting into his best form. He's going to give us a big boost for the rest of the season." The three-time European champions are one of two English clubs in Friday's draw for the last eight, as Arsenal also qualified despite suffering a 1-0 loss to Olympiakos in the second leg. Youssef El-Arabi's deflected second-half strike earned Olympiakos another victory at the Emirates but Arsenal advanced 3-2 on aggregate, avenging their exit to the Greeks on away goals last season. "Really happy to be through. We had a tough opponent, so happy to be through. Sometimes we have to be fair with ourselves -- we were nowhere near the levels we could be," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. Jose Mourinho's Spurs crashed out of the competition after surrendering a 2-0 lead from the first leg, with Dinamo forward Mislav Orsic scoring a brilliant hat-trick for the Croatian champions. Dinamo coach Zoran Mamic resigned this week after being sentenced to four years and eight months in jail for multi-million euro fraud involving Luka Modric's move to Tottenham and other transfers. However, Orsic curled in a marvellous shot from the corner of the area to give Dinamo the lead on 62 minutes and then capped off a fine move with a thumping finish to send the match to extra time. Orsic completed his treble in style as he ran past three players and hammered a low drive beyond Tottenham goalkeeper Hugo Lloris from the edge of the box on 106 minutes. Harry Kane nearly snatched a late goal that would have put Spurs through on away goals but his effort was clawed out by Dinamo goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic as the hosts won 3-2 on aggregate. - 'Basics of life' - "My team didn't bring to the game the basics of football or life –- to respect our jobs and give everything. I can only apologise to the Tottenham supporters," said Mourinho. "If I forget the last 10 minutes of extra time, where we did something to get a different result, the 90 minutes and first half of extra time was one team leaving everything on the pitch. "My team didn't look like it was playing an important match. Another attitude is needed. To say I feel sad is not enough. What I feel is much more than sadness." Steven Gerrard's Rangers finished with nine men in a 2-0 home loss to Slavia Prague, as the Czech side won 3-1 on aggregate. Peter Olayinka gave Slavia an early lead at Ibrox and Rangers' hopes of a comeback suffered a double blow with Kemar Roofe and then Leon Balogun sent off for the Scottish champions in the second half. Nicolae Stanciu's free-kick immediately after Balogun's dismissal ensured victory for Slavia. Ajax made sure of their passage into the next round as a David Neres goal and Dusan Tadic penalty rounded off a 5-0 aggregate win over Young Boys. Gerard Moreno's double in Spain gave Villarreal a second 2-0 victory over Dynamo Kiev in as many weeks, while Granada extended their debut run in Europe, going through 3-2 overall despite a 2-1 loss to Norway's Molde in Budapest. Roma also progressed as a 2-1 victory courtesy of two goals from Real Madrid loanee Borja Mayoral against Shakhtar Donetsk in Kiev wrapped up a 5-1 win on aggregate.

Man Utd, Arsenal into Europa League quarters as Spurs collapse

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight.

Kjaer netted with a bullet header in the final seconds of stoppage time of the last 16, first leg encounter at Old Trafford, levelling the scores after Amad Diallo had opened in the 50th minute with his first United goal.

"This is a great result, we played really well, showed personality and I think we dominated," the defender told Sky Sport Italia.

Milan called the shots early on and had two goals disallowed, Rafael Leao's effort ruled offside and Franck Kessie's powerful 11th-minute finish chalked off after a VAR review showed the ball had glanced off the midfielder's arm before his shot.

Diallo's introduction at half-time proved an inspired move from United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the 18-year-old Ivorian, recently bought by United from Milan's Serie A rivals Atalanta, soon broke the deadlock.

Bruno Fernandes unfurled a delightful long pass towards Diallo, who made an incisive run behind the Milan defence and looped a clever backwards header over Gianluigi Donnarumma.

But United failed to build on that lead and Milan's intelligent play was rewarded with just seconds remaining when Kjaer powered his header past Dean Henderson from a corner.

<h2>- Roma, Spurs, and Arsenal cruise -</h2>

Milan's domestic rivals Roma made sure it was a good night for Italian football with a 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.

Lorenzo Pellegrini prodded home the opener in the 23rd minute after latching on to Pedro's through ball.&nbsp;

Shakhtar pressed for a leveller after the break but quick-fire goals from Stephan El Shaarawy -- his first for Roma since returning from China -- and Gianluca Mancini gave Paulo Fonseca's side a strong lead to defend in the second leg.

The win will have been particularly sweet for Fonseca, who came to Roma from Shakhtar in the summer of 2019.&nbsp;

A Harry Kane double helped Tottenham Hotspur ease to a 2-0 home win over Dinamo Zagreb that continues a good run of form for Jose Mourinho's team.

Spurs have now won their last five matches in all competitions thanks to Thursday's victory in London.

"We had some ups and downs in the season but we come into an important period now and it is good to feel the players are ready to help the team," said Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris.

Arsenal also came away with a win, 3-1 at Olympiakos which all but secures their passage into the quarters.

Martin Odegaard's first Arsenal goal was cancelled out by Youssef El-Arabi.

But two goals in six minutes from Gabriel Magalhaes and substitute Mohamed Elneny earned victory.

Molde's heartening European run looks to have come to an end after a 2-0 defeat at La Liga side Granada.

<h2>- Rangers, Ajax well placed -</h2>

Rangers are well placed to make the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw away to Slavia Prague.

Filip Helander's close-range finish in the first half levelled Nicolae Stanciu's superb opener and left Steve Gerrard's Rangers still in the hunt for a European trophy with the draw in Prague, days after winning their first Scottish League title in 10 years.

The highlight of the match however was Allan McGregor's stunning save near the end, the Scot somehow stopping and holding on to Lukas Masopust's thumping header, which looked destined for the bottom corner.

"I saw it a wee bit late. It's just one of these things," McGregor told BT Sport.

"You react to it, you stick your hand out and hope it doesn't go in, and it never, so happy days!"

Four-time European champions Ajax are almost guaranteed a place in the last eight after thumping Young Boys 3-0 in Amsterdam through goals from Davy Klaassen, Dusan Tadic and Brian Brobbey.

Villarreal also look good to make the quarters thanks to a 2-0 win at Dynamo Kiev.

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight.

Simon Kjaer's last-gasp equaliser gave AC Milan a dramatic 1-1 draw at Manchester United on Thursday, handing the Italians a great chance of reaching the Europa League quarter-finals while Roma, Tottenham and Arsenal cruised closer to the last-eight. Kjaer netted with a bullet header in the final seconds of stoppage time of the last 16, first leg encounter at Old Trafford, levelling the scores after Amad Diallo had opened in the 50th minute with his first United goal. "This is a great result, we played really well, showed personality and I think we dominated," the defender told Sky Sport Italia. Milan called the shots early on and had two goals disallowed, Rafael Leao's effort ruled offside and Franck Kessie's powerful 11th-minute finish chalked off after a VAR review showed the ball had glanced off the midfielder's arm before his shot. Diallo's introduction at half-time proved an inspired move from United coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the 18-year-old Ivorian, recently bought by United from Milan's Serie A rivals Atalanta, soon broke the deadlock. Bruno Fernandes unfurled a delightful long pass towards Diallo, who made an incisive run behind the Milan defence and looped a clever backwards header over Gianluigi Donnarumma. But United failed to build on that lead and Milan's intelligent play was rewarded with just seconds remaining when Kjaer powered his header past Dean Henderson from a corner. - Roma, Spurs, and Arsenal cruise - Milan's domestic rivals Roma made sure it was a good night for Italian football with a 3-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. Lorenzo Pellegrini prodded home the opener in the 23rd minute after latching on to Pedro's through ball. Shakhtar pressed for a leveller after the break but quick-fire goals from Stephan El Shaarawy -- his first for Roma since returning from China -- and Gianluca Mancini gave Paulo Fonseca's side a strong lead to defend in the second leg. The win will have been particularly sweet for Fonseca, who came to Roma from Shakhtar in the summer of 2019. A Harry Kane double helped Tottenham Hotspur ease to a 2-0 home win over Dinamo Zagreb that continues a good run of form for Jose Mourinho's team. Spurs have now won their last five matches in all competitions thanks to Thursday's victory in London. "We had some ups and downs in the season but we come into an important period now and it is good to feel the players are ready to help the team," said Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris. Arsenal also came away with a win, 3-1 at Olympiakos which all but secures their passage into the quarters. Martin Odegaard's first Arsenal goal was cancelled out by Youssef El-Arabi. But two goals in six minutes from Gabriel Magalhaes and substitute Mohamed Elneny earned victory. Molde's heartening European run looks to have come to an end after a 2-0 defeat at La Liga side Granada. - Rangers, Ajax well placed - Rangers are well placed to make the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw away to Slavia Prague. Filip Helander's close-range finish in the first half levelled Nicolae Stanciu's superb opener and left Steve Gerrard's Rangers still in the hunt for a European trophy with the draw in Prague, days after winning their first Scottish League title in 10 years. The highlight of the match however was Allan McGregor's stunning save near the end, the Scot somehow stopping and holding on to Lukas Masopust's thumping header, which looked destined for the bottom corner. "I saw it a wee bit late. It's just one of these things," McGregor told BT Sport. "You react to it, you stick your hand out and hope it doesn't go in, and it never, so happy days!" Four-time European champions Ajax are almost guaranteed a place in the last eight after thumping Young Boys 3-0 in Amsterdam through goals from Davy Klaassen, Dusan Tadic and Brian Brobbey. Villarreal also look good to make the quarters thanks to a 2-0 win at Dynamo Kiev.

Milan grab Europa League last 16 edge at United as Tottenham, Arsenal shine

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said his team have made clear progress in recent months but remain well short of meeting the standards he has set for the north London club.

Arsenal have turned their season around after a torrid start, winning seven of their last 12 Premier League games and netting 22 goals, having managed just 12 goals in their first 14 fixtures.

But despite their recent resurgence, they remain 10th in the table on 37 points, 10 points behind London rivals Chelsea in fourth.

When asked how close Arsenal were to being a team in his own image, Arteta said: "Very far. Very, very far. There's still a lot to improve, a lot of quality to add.

"(We need to be) much more efficient in decision-making, much quicker to open situations up. We need more control of games, more defensive actions in the opponent's half, fewer giveaways, more clean sheets. There's a lot to do, more goals, more creativity.

"When you look at the league table it is not acceptable. We are Arsenal and we should be nowhere near here. If somebody is happy with that he is in the wrong place."

Arteta said last weekend's 3-1 victory against third-placed Leicester City was a step in the right direction.

"When you look at the previous game we played against them a few months ago, and you look at where the team is right now, I think it's always a good way of seeing the progression, and I've seen that," he said.

Arsenal visit the 15th-placed Burnley later on Saturday.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said his team have made clear progress in recent months but remain well short of meeting the standards he has set for the north London club.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said his team have made clear progress in recent months but remain well short of meeting the standards he has set for the north London club. Arsenal have turned their season around after a torrid start, winning seven of their last 12 Premier League games and netting 22 goals, having managed just 12 goals in their first 14 fixtures. But despite their recent resurgence, they remain 10th in the table on 37 points, 10 points behind London rivals Chelsea in fourth. When asked how close Arsenal were to being a team in his own image, Arteta said: "Very far. Very, very far. There's still a lot to improve, a lot of quality to add. "(We need to be) much more efficient in decision-making, much quicker to open situations up. We need more control of games, more defensive actions in the opponent's half, fewer giveaways, more clean sheets. There's a lot to do, more goals, more creativity. "When you look at the league table it is not acceptable. We are Arsenal and we should be nowhere near here. If somebody is happy with that he is in the wrong place." Arteta said last weekend's 3-1 victory against third-placed Leicester City was a step in the right direction. "When you look at the previous game we played against them a few months ago, and you look at where the team is right now, I think it's always a good way of seeing the progression, and I've seen that," he said. Arsenal visit the 15th-placed Burnley later on Saturday.

Improving Arsenal have long way to go, says Arteta

The military has been controlling Myanmar for a month now. After a slow start, the pro-democracy protests have strengthened. Thousands of citizens have been taking to the streets. They have dug their heels and have refused to withdraw. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Over the weekend, the military resorted to lethal force and opened fire on the protesters, killing 18. The crackdown is increasingly getting violent and fierce and the military junta is now said to be deploying more sophisticated tools to sustain this coup. &nbsp;&nbsp;

A group of activists is now claiming that Myanmar's military and security forces have an arsenal of digital weapons. They are allegedly being used in the crackdown against peaceful protesters. What are these digital weapons? And what can they do?&nbsp;

The list of tools is rather long. They were bought by the Myanmar government in recent years. Bulk of the technology came from the West but now these tools have fallen into the hands of the military.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-myanmars-military-deploys-digital-weapons-against-opponents-367515">WATCH |</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-myanmars-military-deploys-digital-weapons-against-opponents-367515/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to this activist group, the Myanmar's military can hack passwords, clone phones, track signals, gather social media intelligence, analyse photographs, and process large amounts of data.&nbsp;

A report shines light on what these kinds of tools can really do. It claims that Myanmar's military has surveillance drones in its arsenal.&nbsp;

They have devices to crack iPhones and software that can hack into computers and steal content. Reportedly in the last two fiscal years, tens of millions of dollars were earmarked for these technologies that can mine computers, track the live locations of people and listen to their conversations.&nbsp;

The United Nations special rapporteur on Myanmar has called for a global arms embargo. The special rapporteur alongside the deputy high commissioner for human rights supported the idea of targeted sanctions too.&nbsp;

Nearly 140 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from 31 countries have signed an open letter. It calls on the United Nations Security Council to impose an arms embargo on Myanmar but there is no consensus yet on the world stage.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the military continues to strengthen its hand with laws that give it more powers like the cyber security bill. &nbsp;

This proposed law would require internet service providers to store user data at a location identified by the government for three years, allow the military junta access to the personal data of users and force the removal of any content on demand. Several human rights groups have called the cyber security bill draconian. With such laws and the violent crackdown against the protesters, Myanmar's military has painted a target on its back.&nbsp;

It is now the focus of targeted sanctions by the West. The United States, Britain, Canada and the European Union have implemented 'smart sanctions'. Reportedly, this is an attempt to 'squeeze the military' and its business interests, making it harder for the junta to conduct business with the West and other countries in the region could be mulling similar moves.&nbsp;

The military has been controlling Myanmar for a month now. After a slow start, the pro-democracy protests have strengthened. Thousands of citizens have been taking to the streets.

The military has been controlling Myanmar for a month now. After a slow start, the pro-democracy protests have strengthened. Thousands of citizens have been taking to the streets. They have dug their heels and have refused to withdraw. Over the weekend, the military resorted to lethal force and opened fire on the protesters, killing 18. The crackdown is increasingly getting violent and fierce and the military junta is now said to be deploying more sophisticated tools to sustain this coup. A group of activists is now claiming that Myanmar's military and security forces have an arsenal of digital weapons. They are allegedly being used in the crackdown against peaceful protesters. What are these digital weapons? And what can they do? The list of tools is rather long. They were bought by the Myanmar government in recent years. Bulk of the technology came from the West but now these tools have fallen into the hands of the military. WATCH | According to this activist group, the Myanmar's military can hack passwords, clone phones, track signals, gather social media intelligence, analyse photographs, and process large amounts of data. A report shines light on what these kinds of tools can really do. It claims that Myanmar's military has surveillance drones in its arsenal. They have devices to crack iPhones and software that can hack into computers and steal content. Reportedly in the last two fiscal years, tens of millions of dollars were earmarked for these technologies that can mine computers, track the live locations of people and listen to their conversations. The United Nations special rapporteur on Myanmar has called for a global arms embargo. The special rapporteur alongside the deputy high commissioner for human rights supported the idea of targeted sanctions too. Nearly 140 non-governmental organizations (NGOs) from 31 countries have signed an open letter. It calls on the United Nations Security Council to impose an arms embargo on Myanmar but there is no consensus yet on the world stage. Meanwhile, the military continues to strengthen its hand with laws that give it more powers like the cyber security bill. This proposed law would require internet service providers to store user data at a location identified by the government for three years, allow the military junta access to the personal data of users and force the removal of any content on demand. Several human rights groups have called the cyber security bill draconian. With such laws and the violent crackdown against the protesters, Myanmar's military has painted a target on its back. It is now the focus of targeted sanctions by the West. The United States, Britain, Canada and the European Union have implemented 'smart sanctions'. Reportedly, this is an attempt to 'squeeze the military' and its business interests, making it harder for the junta to conduct business with the West and other countries in the region could be mulling similar moves.

'Myanmar's junta using digital weapons’ arsenal against protesters'

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While Arsenal will travel to the&nbsp;Stadio&nbsp;Olimpico&nbsp;in Rome to take on Benfica, Manchester United will lock horns with Spain's Real Sociedad in their away leg at Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a statement, UEFA said that both the matches would take place as originally schedule on February 18.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bizarre-overtly-sexual-photograph-of-england-cricket-team-huddle-blocked-by-facebook-362743" hreflang="en">Bizarre! 'Overtly sexual' photograph of England cricket team huddle blocked by Facebook</a>

Whereas Molde's home match against Hoffenheim was also moved to Villareal's Estadio de la Ceramica.&nbsp;

Manchester United's game was move to the home of Italian champions – Juventus – after Spanish government extended a ban on flights from the UK, Brazil and South Africa to March 2 in a big to curb the spread of new COVID-19 variants.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Arsenal cannot fly to Lisbon as the UK has ruled out that only essential travel to and&nbsp;fro&nbsp;from Portugal is allowed.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/instagram-vows-strong-action-after-racist-abuse-of-premier-league-stars-362719" hreflang="en">Instagram vows strong action after racist abuse of Premier League stars</a>

Spain's decision to extend the travel ban from the UK also forced Chelsea’s visit to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League to be shifted to Bucharest. The match is scheduled to be played on February 23.&nbsp;

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe.

Manchester United and Arsenal's first-leg matches of the UEFA Europa League round of 32 matches have been shifted to Italy as COVID-19 restrictions continue to hit travel across Europe. While Arsenal will travel to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome to take on Benfica, Manchester United will lock horns with Spain's Real Sociedad in their away leg at Juventus’ Allianz Stadium in Turin. In a statement, UEFA said that both the matches would take place as originally schedule on February 18. ALSO READ: Bizarre! 'Overtly sexual' photograph of England cricket team huddle blocked by Facebook Whereas Molde's home match against Hoffenheim was also moved to Villareal's Estadio de la Ceramica. Manchester United's game was move to the home of Italian champions – Juventus – after Spanish government extended a ban on flights from the UK, Brazil and South Africa to March 2 in a big to curb the spread of new COVID-19 variants. Meanwhile, Arsenal cannot fly to Lisbon as the UK has ruled out that only essential travel to and fro from Portugal is allowed. ALSO READ: Instagram vows strong action after racist abuse of Premier League stars Spain's decision to extend the travel ban from the UK also forced Chelsea’s visit to Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League to be shifted to Bucharest. The match is scheduled to be played on February 23.

Manchester United, Arsenal Europa League matches moved to Italy

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on Thursday said that social media companies must take complete responsibility to help stop the online abuse of players as their mental health can be affected if they are targeted.&nbsp;

Last week, Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, Axel Tuanzebe and Anthony Martial, West Brom's Romaine Sawyers and Chelsea's James Reece were subject to online racism.&nbsp;

"There are all types of different abuses and it has to be eradicated completely," Arteta told reporters. "I think social media has a big responsibility. Because then you talk about the mental health of players... and how exposed they are.

"I'm all open for people to have opinions, but not just to be insulting people, abusing people and using a screen behind a phone to say whatever you want about a person you don't know.

"That has to be eradicated because it's causing a lot of damage in football, a lot of damage to public people."

Last month, Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson and Karen Carney held talks with government ministers regarding online abuse and discrimination.&nbsp;

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on Thursday said that social media companies must take complete responsibility to help stop the online abuse of players as their mental health can be affected if they are targeted.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta on Thursday said that social media companies must take complete responsibility to help stop the online abuse of players as their mental health can be affected if they are targeted. Last week, Manchester United's Marcus Rashford, Axel Tuanzebe and Anthony Martial, West Brom's Romaine Sawyers and Chelsea's James Reece were subject to online racism. "There are all types of different abuses and it has to be eradicated completely," Arteta told reporters. "I think social media has a big responsibility. Because then you talk about the mental health of players... and how exposed they are. "I'm all open for people to have opinions, but not just to be insulting people, abusing people and using a screen behind a phone to say whatever you want about a person you don't know. "That has to be eradicated because it's causing a lot of damage in football, a lot of damage to public people." Last month, Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson and Karen Carney held talks with government ministers regarding online abuse and discrimination.

'That has to be eradicated': Mike Arteta urges social media firms to help stop online abuse of players

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