Paul Merson has urged Mikel Arteta to put an end to Arsenal's slump with a clear-out in what he believes will be "massive summer" for his former side.
The Gunners put a dismal first half of the season behind them to show signs of improvement in 2021, with a 2-1 win over arch-rivals Tottenham last month a particular highlight.
But Arsenal were spineless in their 3-0 defeat by Liverpool on Sunday, in which numerous senior players failed to make an impression.
This has led to calls for Arteta to root out his underperforming stars, with the Spaniard vowing to remove all those "who don't have that passion, that emotion and that commitment" to his project.
Merson insists such drastic measures must be taken for Arsenal to progress on the pitch next season.
"I watched Arsenal against Spurs and they were outstanding. You watched them and thought they looked a good team," the former Gunners ace told Sky Sports .
"They looked like they were going to turn a corner but then against Liverpool, who are not setting the world alight at the moment, they looked completely lost.
What will it take for Arsenal to finish in the top four next season? Have your say in the comments.
"It’s a roller coaster for Arsenal at the moment, and they’ve got another massive summer coming up for the club.
"What do you do? You’ve got to start somewhere, and you cannot keep doing what they are doing. That’s the problem."
Merson also rubbished Arsenal's hopes of finishing in the top four next season and lamented the fact their current hopes of success rely on the Europa League.
He added: "The club have become also-rans. You are buying a season ticket at Arsenal next season for what? A good cup run.
"Do you see them getting in the top four next season? I don’t. Barring a Europa league win there is unlikely to be European football at the club next season."
Arsenal take on Slavia Prague in the first leg of their Europa League final on Thursday night.
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