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LONDON. — Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted he does not view the Europa League as an avenue by which to qualify for the Champions League soccer.
After missing out on reaching Europe’s elite club competition last season after 19 straight qualifications, Wenger’s side begin life in the Europa League by facing German side Cologne tonight.
Europa League glory would guarantee a Champions League place next season — a route taken by Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United last year — but Wenger believes the best way to qualify is via the English Premier League.
“We don’t calculate that this is a way to qualify for the Champions League,” Wenger said at a press conference yester day ahead of the match against Cologne.
“It is not the best chance but one of the opportunities. I came out many times saying the best way to do it is the top four of the Premier League.” — Reuters
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