More evidence showing Leicester replaced Arsenal in EPL big six

The time is just right to establish – with facts – whether Leicester City is a part of the new big six in the Premier League. If they are, who are they replacing?

The title gave the last bit away, so there is no point in beating around the bush regarding the team we have replaced over the previous season from the big six equation is none other than Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal. But why them and not their bitter North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur?

To answer this, let us break down several factors that make Arsenal’s romantic story of dominance a visage of a nostalgic past. The downfall came for the Gunners during the time they got rid of their longest-serving manager Arsène Wenger.

The decision, in hindsight, was a dreadful one as despite losing out on big names, Wenger made it his staple to qualify undoubtedly for the European Champions League spots regularly every season. With a squad far less valuable than the clubs above & below him, Wenger’s achievements, apart from the Invincibles, were not acknowledged.

After the Frenchman departed, the reality became hard-hitting. Without even realizing what they had lost, the ruthlessness of the Premier League eroded Arsenal’s influence over the league in a dramatic downfall. Now, fast forward to Arteta’s stint. Bagging the FA Cup and the Shield rapidly, his first introductory season was not considered a failure.

However, things became clearer soon after that the Gunners have lost their grip over Europe. Failing to qualify for any of the three European tournaments, Arsenal was the only top dog to missing out. Even Tottenham qualified to secure a place in the newly formed UEFA Europa Conference League.

How does Leicester City come into the picture?

While Arsenal was on a downward curve, Leicester City managed to establish an added stability under their manager Brendan Rodgers. The Northern Irishman helped the Foxes to grab two similar pieces of silverware like Arsenal from the previous season with a fifth-place finish that secured Leicester City’s trip for a campaign for the Europa League.

Adding to this, the Gunners struggled the most at the start of this season in the league. They were being manhandled by every side they met. From the newly promoted Brentford to the Premier League champions, everyone contributed to the club’s torment. Things don’t look promising to say the least, for the Londoners.

With many such examples of success in recent times, Leicester City has a better track record in usurping Arsenal’s hierarchy in the big six. Even more by comparing the value of their squads. Leicester City, under the King Power banner, has a side that is the 14th ranked team in terms of value. Arsenal is at 15th in the same list, trailing behind the Foxes. City also brags about having one of the very best training facilities in Europe.

11. Juventus – £576.36m

12. Inter Milan – £515.97m

13. Borussia Dortmund – £509.31m

14. Leicester City – £495.09m

15. Arsenal – £493.65m (for the full list click here)

Things are looking to stay like this for a sustainable future without any miracle. There is a significant lack of leadership and management in the Emirates side. The side is in a strained relationship with their owners at Kroenke Sports & Entertainment.

Meanwhile, Leicester City is on the rise. Despite the tough competition and repeated failure to secure the Champions League, they have not dropped the ball yet and are desperately trying to grind it out this season hoping for a better story.