Premier League: Arsene Wenger promises title challenge next season

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has stated his intentions after signing a new two-year contract with the Gunners: next season's objective is a solid title challenge. However, that was the objective at the start of this season and Arsenal ended up finishing fifth, outside of the top four for the first time since Wenger took over, and also crashed out of the Champions League after a 10-2 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich. The contract between Wenger and the club does not include a break clause and it could see his reign go on for 23 years. "I love this club and I am looking forward to the future with optimism and excitement," said Wenger after having signed the new deal. "This is a strong group of players and with some additions we can be even more successful. We're committed to mounting a sustained league challenge and that will be our focus this summer and next season." It is believed that Arsenal will have around 100 million pounds to spend on new players this summer, roughly the same amount they have spent last year. Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis said: "There is no complacency anywhere at this club. Our goal is to compete for and win trophies here and in Europe. Everything we do is designed to make that happen and we will be working hard on and off the pitch this summer to improve and make a strong challenge next season." Club owner Stan Kroenke also expressed his belief that Wenger will win major silverware in the future: "It's what the fans, players, staff, manager and board expect and we won't rest until that is achieved - Arsene is the best person to help us make that happen." The bookmakers don't share Kroenke's belief, Arsenal are 12/1 at Bet365 to win the Premier League title next season while Manchester City are the current favourites at 2/1.