STORIED PAST BRIGHT FUTURE

Another one bites the dust. Another season that is, and I spent a very pleasant sunny afternoon at the Emirates watching the Arsenal breeze through a 5-1 destruction of a very poor Everton team. I also spent a a very pleasant time in the pub with friends having an end of season rendezvous where analysis was mixed in with general catching up and friendly conversation.

That the atmosphere in and around the ground was upbeat was telling and would indicate that there is a general consensus. What that consensus is, is hard to quantify, but here goes.

I think most fans feel that, while it was disappointing to not finish higher in the league, getting back into europe was this season's challenge and that has been achieved.

I think most fans feel more connected to this set of players, who are part of the youngest squad in the league.

I think that the atmosphere within the ground is markedly upbeat and the moan and groan brigade are less vociferus.

I think that while not everyone thinks that Arteta is the perfect solution, there is patience being exhibited.

I think that the injustices of the season, perceived and real, alongside the critical backlash (particularly at the start of the campaign) have given fans a feeling of 'us against the'.

I think that most fans will be going into the summer break not wanting to fly banners over the stadium with negative messages, but rather, are looking forward to the break and relishing next season.

Something is happening at the Arsenal that much is clear and I fell that perceptions have been realigned which adds to a more objective view of things. Manchester United lost their legacy manager 11 years ago and they are at an all time low. We left the Wenger era behind 4 years ago and we are in good shape (at last) as we have seen the last knockings of Wenger's acquisitions, with the attendant mind sets, leave the club or have one foot in the departure lounge.

Taking a look at that mob up the road, they have been in celebratory mood, which is hardly surprising as a club that have won 1 League Cup this century have no tangible success to celebrate. "This time next year" continues to be their unofficial motto. It's always about the next game, that's a football cliche but it's true. The next season is season 5 in the rebuild of Arsenal Football Club and with the right dealings in the transfer window we may see a new era begin in a meaningful way. We've won stuff; 9 trophies this Century so we always have a point of reference as a successful club but it now seems that the future looks bright and that is something to be happy about now that the 2021/22 season has been wrapped up and put away.