Olivier Giroud may have left Arsenal in 2018 but he has still been able to lend his former club a helping hand.
His latest goal for AC Milan has boosted the Gunners’ chances of a successful return to the Champions League next season.
Milan travelled to Juventus on Sunday night knowing a win would secure them a top four finish in Serie A.
Giroud scored a first-half header to give his side a 1-0 victory over the Old Lady, taking them into the Champions League.
Juventus on the other hand will not feature in the competition as they can now only finish as high as fifth.
As a result, Arsenal will be placed into Pot 2 of the Champions League draw, which normally takes place towards the end of the summer.
UEFA determines their seedings for European competitions through their coefficient system, with the Gunners sitting 23rd.
Towards the end of April it looked as though they would be placed in pot 3, potentially handing them a ‘group of death’.
However, with Juventus not able to compete in the Champions League next season, Arsenal’s spot in Pot 2 is confirmed.
The Italian giants are eighth in the coefficient rankings but have been unable to qualify for the pinnacle of European football.
Arsenal’s position now means they are set to face only one heavy-hitting side in the group stages next season.
As it stands, Barcelona, Napoli, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Benfica and Feyenoord could all be visiting the Emirates, as well as the winners of the Europa League out of Roma and Sevilla.
Giroud could also make a return to north London as Milan sit in pot 3 thanks to their recent victory.
Arsenal have waited six years to return to the Champions League, with fans now excited to compete in the biggest competition in club football once again