There can be no doubt Thursday’s match in the Emirates Stadium is more than a must win, it’s really the season. The Gunners trail Unai Emery’s club, 2-1, however, Arsenal’s away goal could play an important role in the match.
Mikel Arteta has already announced that Alexandre Lacazette and Kieran Tirenry will not be ready to play, however the boss does have the squad to win this match and move into the Europa League final, probably against Manchester United.
The Gunners put in a good performance on Sunday at Newcastle United, however, Thursday’s match will have more pressure on the players, and a lot more on the line for Arteta’s and his staff.
Emery returns to Emirates Stadium with the hopes of spoiling Arsenal’s Europa League dreams. The Spaniard has won this competition three times while at Sevilla.
With all of that said, here is my predicted starting XI on Thursday…
[4-2-3-1]
Aubameyang
Smith Rowe, Odegaard, Saka
Partey, Ceballos
Xhaka, Mari, Holding, Chambers
Leno
Predicted final score…
ARSENAL 2 – Villarreal 1 [Aggregate 3-3, with Arsenal winning in shootout, 5-4]
COYG!
Gunner1953
Arsenal Women will host Manchester United at Emirates Stadium in a WSL clash on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta reports Ben White could be ready and available to play on Saturday at Brighton and Hove Albion.
Football London is reporting Arsenal is keen on a move for Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi.
Football Insider reports the Gunners will have no interest in selling Martin Zubimendi in January.
Mikel Arteta on signing a new contract, “We are all very much aligned. Whenever the time is right, we will get that done. There is nothing to be concerned about. We have the same ambition and the same will. Whenever we have the time, we will get that sorted.”
