Arsenal's Europa League campaign kicks off on Thursday and there will be no more restbite for Mikel Arteta's side as a gruelling pre-World Cup schedule shifts into focus. The Gunners will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Manchester United at the weekend, but their trip to Switzerland will offer fringe players a chance to impress against FC Zurich.
The second tier of European competition can be seen as a hinderance, but for Arsenal to get the best out of their squad, then the Europa League will need to become as much of a focus as any other trophy this season. Although the scheduling results in consistent Thursday-Sunday matchdays, often criticised and frowned upon by managers who wish to compete heavily in the league, it does provide stability.
Arsenal would much prefer to be in the Champions League but must now try to make the most of a big chance for European silverware. Winning the trophy would qualify them for Europe's premier club competition, and that could still be extremely important with such a competitive pack of teams chasing the top four spots in the Premier League.
