Andrey Arshavin says Arsenal have a tricky start to the season, but remains confident of a top-four finish.
Many believe the Gunners could slip out of the Champions League places this season following Manchester City's summer spending spree.
The Eastlands side even have former Arsenal star Emmanuel Adebayor spearheading their attack, while Arsene Wenger's only signing is defender Thomas Vermaelen.
With Arsenal playing the likes of Everton, Manchester United and City early on this season, Arshavin knows they must start positively, especially with the group stage of the Champions League starting in September.
very good
Although Arsenal go in as underdogs for the Barclays Premier League title Arshavin says Wenger's side remain title challengers.
"We are heading for a very difficult start of the season," explained Arshavin. "We have four very hard opponents at the beginning of it. Then the Champions League games come.
"Getting to the group stage is one of our main tasks. It won't be easy, but I hope we'll manage to do it.
"With Adebayor signing for Manchester City, we lost a very good player. But Arsenal remain one of the best clubs in the Premier League, even without him.
"There are still the same big four clubs who will challenge the title next season. The remaining European slots will be taken by Manchester City, Aston Villa, Everton or Tottenham."
