Former Arsenal defender, Shkodran Mustafi has claimed that the Premier League leaders have surpassed his expectations this seaaon.

According to him, Arsenal’s return to the Champions League next season is almost more important than winning the title.

Recall that Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola while addressing the press ahead of this weekend’s game against Fulham, also said finishing second this season is already a great achievement for Mikel Arteta’s boys.

Arsenal, who were atop the English top flight and were widely tipped to lift the trophy for the first time since 2004, have gradually handed the driving seat to Manchester City.

Although they are still points ahead of the Citizens, City has two games in hand and leads with two points with victories.

“Arsenal has not played in the Champions League since Arsene Wenger left the club,” Mustafi told Metro.

“I think Arsenal have already won a title in which they play in the Champions League again next year because that’s where the club belongs.”