London, Aug. 8 -- Rewind a year and Arsenal was heading into the new season with renewed vigor and optimism. But ahead of the upcoming campaign there is an all too familiar sinking feeling surrounding the club.

In 2018, Unai Emery had been appointed as head coach as the curtain came down on Arsene Wenger's 22-year reign.

There had also been improved business in the transfer market and a shake-up of backroom staff had supporters dreaming of a return to the Premier League's top four.

A four-month unbeaten run did little to quell the expectations but, ultimately, Emery's new-look outfit came up short once more.

Stuttering over the line in the league cost it a place in the Champions League positions as they finished a point behind rival T...