Wenger: Champions League qualification bigger than FA Cup

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger claims securing qualification for the Champions League is a bigger ‘trophy’ than winning the FA Cup.

The Gunners boss told fans and journalists at the club’s annual general meeting that his priorities lie more with ensuring a continued presence in Europe’s premier club competition than chasing domestic silverware.

Arsenal are currently enjoying their 15th consecutive Champions League campaign, but have not won a trophy since an FA Cup triumph over Manchester United in 2005.

“For me there are five trophies: Premier League, Champions League, the third is to qualify for the Champions League, the fourth is the FA Cup and the fifth is the League Cup,” he said.

“A player does not want to know if you’ve won the League Cup.”

The Frenchman also appealed for calm and renewed support from Arsenal fans after a poor recent run of form.

“I used to say to the players ‘our job is not to talk, but to produce performances’, so I am not very comfortable to speak to you,” he said.

“I know there seems to be a lot of dissatisfaction and I can understand but it’s important we don’t go overboard.

“We hit a wall in the past two games in an unexplainable way, but this team can deliver. I am optimistic.”

There is a common perception among Arsenal fans and in the media that Wenger is denied the financial backing afforded to his Premier League rivals, but the Frenchman insists he is happy with the way the club is run.

“I never complained about resources,” he said. “I wouldn’t be proud to take my wages at the end of the month just because somebody puts a cheque in.”