Arsene Wenger believes qualifying for the UEFA Champions League is 'compulsory' for Arsenal after their move to The Emirates Stadium over the summer.
The Gunners left Highbury - their historic home of 93 years - to move into the new 60,000 capacity arena in a bid to put the club on a similar financial level to the giants of European football.
However, performances on the new pitch have been somewhat disappointing so far this season, and Arsenal could face a battle with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Bolton Wanderers and Portsmouth for fourth place, should they not improve their form.
Wenger's side only secured Champions League football on the last day of last season, and the French boss admits the financial repercussions of missing out this term do not bear thinking about.
"To be in the Champions League is compulsory," said Wenger. "If you build a new stadium for 60,000 fans, your target is not to be out of the Champions League.
"When you are manager, you want the team to play to potential and I do not want them to be worried about the financial situation. It is not about that for them.
"What is important is that we keep going as we are."
Despite being 14 points shy of Manchester United, Wenger is refusing to give up on the title, as he retains his unshakeable faith in his young side.
"At the moment, I feel that everybody can drop points against everybody - we have shown them the way," joked Wenger.
"Other teams also cannot afford to drop points. Manchester United could not afford to drop points against West Ham, they still did.
"I believe in this team and I am sure in the end you will be surprised at the end of the season.
"Everyone says it is a two-horse race and at this time, we are not in the race - but we have to try to get back into it."
Wenger has been charged with improper conduct after a confrontation with referee Steve Bennett during the recent 2-2 draw with Portsmouth, but the Gunners boss believes journalists should focus on the positive aspects of the game rather than highlighting confrontation.
"What you want is everybody to behave perfectly, but you can understand that sometimes people are not controlled and have the right to ask why the referee gave a free-kick.
"In the end, you are killing your own job as people will be turned off the game, as they see only the bad things about the game. They never speak about the beauty of the game any more."
the 10 million jackpot is important!!!
arsenal has fallen off the title race.......only hope is ucl
aiyah, they always manage to qualify wan lah.
last season, squeeze out Tottenham at the last minute.