If Arsenal Do Not Finish In The Top Four, What Happens Next?

After a disappointing draw with Sunderland on Saturday, it is becoming increasingly possible that Arsenal will not finish within the top four of the EPL this season. Aston Villa lost to Chelsea but were by no means disgraced.

Villa still looks strong and doesn't look like it will drop at least six points in their upcoming 12 games. More importantly, Arsenal does not look like winning all their remaining 12 games.

If Arsenal does not finish in the top four, what will the consequences be? Firstly and most importantly, Arsene Wenger will display his loyalty by staying at the club. The blame for Arsenal's poor league form should not be put at his door alone, with lengthy injuries to Eduardo, Rosicky, Fabregas, Walcott, and Diaby.

This is not to mention all the other injuries keeping out other key players for two-to-three weeks at a time.

The main way Arsenal will suffer apart from obvious financial consequences, will be the possibility of players deserting the squad in search of greener grass.

Ever since captain Viera publicly seeked to leave Arsenal and eventually left in 2005 to go to then Italian giants Juventus, there has been an air of discontent in the Arsenal dressing room.

Last season, this resulted in the departure of Hleb and Flamini.

Contrary to some players' beliefs, Arsenal has a great manager, and any move is not a step up. Look at Hleb and Flamini now after moving teams—their careers are going downhill.

It is essential that Fabregas and Van Persie stay at Arsenal regardless of their finish, not only for Arsenal but for their own careers. The future of Adebayor is even more so at stake.

Do not be fooled by Arsenal's form this season. They are on the verge of greatness, but it has been slightly delayed by the midfield exodus last summer and the lengthy injury list.

It is important that they make the EPL financially so this talented squad will not be broken and set back again.