Mikel Arteta has been told what a successful season would be at Arsenal after their recent resurgence.
The Gunners endured a disappointing start to the season which left Mikel Arteta sitting rather uncomfortably with his side far too close to the relegation zone.
But things have changed in recent weeks with Arteta and his men turning things around with four wins from their last five Premier League games, including Monday night's win over Newcastle United.
The Gunners are now 10th and seven points off the top four having played a game more, but a player who was part of Arsenal's 'Invincibles' team in Lauren, believes it would take Champions League qualification for Arteta to be successful this season, even with the poor start.
"A successful season for Arsenal this year is getting into the Champions League positions," Lauren told Genting Bet.
"And then next year, they’ll need to sit down and look to make a step forward so they can fight for the league and be as high as possible – something that needs to be the target for a club like Arsenal.
"This season, Arsenal didn’t start as expected and have lost many games that they should have won.
"Because I like to think with great ideas, I believe that a club like Arsenal have to focus on achieving the greatest targets. Therefore, I am looking at the Champions League places as a target for this season."
Lauren also believes Arsenal should be looking to win the Europa League this season as they prepare to face Benfica in the Round of 32 next month.
"Arsenal have the quality to win the Europa League this year," he added.
"There are still some good teams left in the competition but if Arsenal keep all their players fit, Partey, Saka, Xhaka, Aubameyang, Lacazette, Emile Smith Rowe – and the fact that Arsenal have been keeping clean sheets, winning the ball high up the pitch and more efficient in attack – all of this points to the fact that Arsenal can go on to win the Europa League. Why not!"
