It’s a case of restoring pride when Arsenal host Bayern on Tuesday evening.
Having squandered a promising position in the away leg three weeks ago, Arsenal have a four-goal deficit to overturn. Even the most optimistic supporters will say that overcoming such a margin requires a miracle.
Press conference
Wenger was honest but equally bullish when answering questions from the press on Monday afternoon.
The 67-year-old had this to say about the second-leg tie with Bayern, which has already been branded a dead rubber: “The only advantage of our situation is that we have not much choice – we have to go for it and attack.”
Wenger also clarified his position on Alexis Sánchez, who is increasingly linked with a move away from the club this summer.
When questioned about whether there was an internal disagreement or bust-up, as was reported recently: “I am not aware [of it], nothing happened. He is a committed player and sometimes his behaviour is excessive. But I understand that you have to fill the newspapers.”
Team news
After a draining 3-1 defeat this past weekend against Liverpool, there could and should be a few alterations in midweek.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who has impressed in a central midfield role, should be given the opportunity to perform there once more on this occasion. Francis Coquelin meanwhile has looked unconvincing alongside Granit Xhaka, meaning one of the two have to be dropped should the Ox play in a deeper holding position.
Alex Iwobi has had his fair share of criticism for tentative displays in recent months. It seems fair that the 20-year-old will be pulled out of the firing line, with either Lucas or Walcott starting over him on this occasion.
David Ospina is expected to be recalled as Wenger’s preferred Champions League goalkeeper whilst Aaron Ramsey could feature from the offset too.
Possible XI (4-2-3-1): Ospina; Bellerin, Koscielny, Mustafi, Gibbs; Ox, Xhaka; Walcott, Perez, Ramsey; Alexis.
The opposition
Bayern have recently improved and avoided more of the shaky results which provided us hope of a decent result last time out.
They’ve yet to lose a match in 2017 and Carlo Ancelotti’s side are looking more impressive. Despite a 1-1 draw against Hertha directly after their 5-1 thrashing, they’ve now netted 14 goals in the three matches since.
Philipp Lahm (suspension) and Jerome Boateng (shoulder) are unavailable for selection, whilst first-choice goalkeeper Manuel Neuer (knock) is doubtful. There is an opportunity for more fringe players to come in while Ancelotti could rest key men with tougher fixtures to come. Yes, I just said that.
Possible XI (4-2-3-1): Neuer; Rafinha, Martinez, Hummels, Alaba; Alonso, Kimmich; Ribery, Thiago, Robben; Lewandowski.