Last Thursday, Arsenal secured a draw at home in the first leg of the Europa League semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid. The Gunners took the lead through Alexandre Lacazette. Towards the end, Arsenal’s defender, Laurent Koscielny, made a mistake and allowed Antoine Griezmann to equalize for the Spanish side.
Arsenal players are keen to have a grand farewell for Arsene Wenger. As such, they are eager to win the Europa League trophy for their French manager.
Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid Match Preview
Arsenal Team News
Going into the match, Wenger gave a rest to the majority of his senior players. The likes of Aaron Ramsey, Laurent Koscielny and Alexandre Lacazette played no role in the club’s defeat to Manchester United. Prior to the match, there have been concerns regarding the fitness of Henrikh Mkhitaryan and David Ospina. Both of them suffered knocks while playing at Old Trafford. When the duo was spotted in training, the team was given a boost.
Atletico Madrid Team News
Meanwhile, the same thing happened to Atletico Madrid. Many key players were given a break ahead of the clash. Atletico Madrid’s defence line remains one of the hardest to break in La Liga. At home, the La Liga side has conceded just four goals all season. Additionally, Diego Costa could start the match against Arsenal. The striker played 62 minutes over the weekend after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Arsenal’s Predicted Line-up
Wenger is likely to play his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation with Lacazette spearheading the team. After Cech missed the previous two matches, the first choice goalkeeper could be given the nod ahead of Ospina in this highly anticipated clash. Arsenal will be certain to play a back four as the senior defenders take their positions. Aaron Ramsey and Henrikh Mkhitaryan who have excelled in the Europa League are expected to start too.
Cech
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Lacazette
Atletico Madrid’s Predicted Line-up
After grabbing a crucial away goal, the result of the match is in their favour. Sime Vrsaljko will face his suspension after sent down the tunnel at the Emirates and is unable to play for his club. Jan Oblak, who had impressed in London last week, is definitely going to be the man between the posts. With Diego Costa back in contention to play, Simeone could play a 4-4-2 against the visitors.
Oblak
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