Mikel Arteta's greatest strength has become his weakness as Arsenal owners left on alert

'Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. ' That's the tagline and his troops will be looking to avoid when they travel to the French capital for next week's second leg against Paris Saint-Germain. , Arsenal have been left with work to do, but the ramifications of the result could reach far beyond this current season.

It's unlikely even the most vehement Arsenal haters could deny Arteta credit for the job he's achieved at the north London outfit. Nicknamed the division's 'banter club' when he was parachuted in as Unai Emery's replacement five-and-a-half years ago, the Spanish coach has certainly made an impact.

If Arsenal hold their nerve in the remaining four matches of the season, they'll secure a third consecutive second-placed finish. Not since the halcyon days of Arsene Wenger have the Gunners finished in the top two three years on the spin. But while second is commendable, it's unlikely to move the needle among a fanbase and ownership group whose expectations have been heightened following the recent turnaround.

Changing the mentality around Arsenal has been something Arteta has spoken about at length since walking through the Emirates Stadium door. In some ways, it's worked a treat. It's over two years since Arsenal last lost a fixture against any of their 'Big Six' rivals, with the fear factor having certainly returned. But what was once Arteta's biggest strength has now turned into his weakness; Arsenal simply must lift silverware if he's to be considered a success.

Of course, it's easier said than done. After all, competing for trophies should be considered a privilege, not a right. However, if Arsenal continue to be perennial bridesmaids, eventually, the hierarchy will call time on the Arteta project and go in search of a manager who can get them over the line.

It's made all the worse by the success clubs around the league already have or could go on to achieve this season. Liverpool came out of nowhere to win the league, while Newcastle ended their 56-year trophy drought by lifting the League Cup, beating Arsenal en route to the final.

In Pep Guardiola's worst season as City boss, they've got a solid shot at winning yet another trophy in the FA Cup. Whereas on the continent, Chelsea look a dead cert for the Conference League, while one of Manchester United or Tottenham Hotspur appear the most likely Europa League winners. If Arsenal can't turn things around in Paris, they'll find themselves once again standing at the front of the queue hoping to catch the bride's bouquet.