Former England striker Michael Owen believes Arsenal will fall short of winning the Quadruple this season, despite the club remaining firmly in contention across all four major competitions.
The Gunners secured their place in the Carabao Cup final after defeating Chelsea 4–2 on aggregate in the semi-finals, extending an impressive run that has kept hopes of a historic campaign alive under Mikel Arteta.
Strong position across competitions
Arsenal are enjoying a strong season on multiple fronts. They currently sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, finished their UEFA Champions League group with a perfect record, and remain in the FA Cup, where they are set to face Wigan Athletic in the fourth round.
Those results have sparked talk of a possible Quadruple, but Owen has played down the idea, warning that the challenge will become too demanding as the season wears on.
“The league is obviously nearly wrapped up, and yes, they could win the Carabao Cup,” Owen said while speaking on talkSPORT.
FA Cup and Europe Seen as Major Hurdles
According to Owen, Arsenal’s toughest challenges will come in the FA Cup and the Champions League, where the level of competition — and motivation — will be significantly higher.
“And then the other two are going to be absolutely tough,” he said.
The former Liverpool and Manchester United striker explained that teams already out of the title race are likely to shift their focus to the FA Cup as a way to salvage their seasons.
“All the other clubs will be focused on the FA Cup to rescue their campaigns, and they’ll put out strong teams,” Owen added.
He also pointed to the unpredictable nature of the Champions League, noting that fine margins often decide outcomes, regardless of domestic form.
“The Champions League could be anybody’s,” he concluded.
