Soccer-Topping Europa League group could be crucial for Arsenal, says Arteta

(Reuters) - Finishing top of their Europa League group may prove crucial for Arsenal's hopes of progressing deep into the competition, coach Mikel Arteta said ahead of Thursday's visit to PSV Eindhoven, where they need one point to guarantee a first-place finish.

Arsenal lead Group A on 12 points from four games, five ahead of second-placed PSV, and if they avoid defeat they will qualify for the last 16 and avoid a two-legged playoff.

"This competition is getting harder and harder," Arteta told a news conference on Wednesday.

"How it looks today and what the possibilities are, it looks like the next round will be extremely competitive.

"That's why finishing first in the group and avoiding another two games is such an important thing for us."

The eight sides who come second in the standings will compete in February's playoffs, where they will face the eight teams finishing third in their Champions League group.

Barcelona were relegated to the Europa League on Wednesday, while the likes of Juventus and Atletico Madrid - who lost their chance to remain in Europe's top club competition - could earn places next week.

In the last round of games, Arsenal host Zurich on Nov. 3 when PSV travel to Bodo/Glimt.