In the next couple of weeks, Arsenal will play two matches against one of the Europe’s strongest sides, Atletico Madrid.
The tie is now framed by the news that manager Arsene Wenger will step down at the end of the season, after 22 years in charge of the club. The Arsenal players seem desperate to send the boss out on a high, and the best way to do that would be to win the Europa League.
The Opposition
The first team standing in Arsenal’s way is Atletico Madrid. The Spanish side are currently second in La Liga, and have the best defensive record in the division. They’re managed by Diego Simeone.
Atletico started out in the Champions League, but they had a tough group. Chelsea and AS Roma ended up finishing first and second, as the Spanish side simply drew too many matches.
That hasn’t been a problem in the Europa League, as they’ve won every game but one so far. The only match they failed to achieve victory was against Sporting CP, but the 1-0 defeat wasn’t enough to overturn their 2-0 advantage from the first leg.
Despite finishing third in their Champions League group, Atletico only conceded four goals in six games. Arsenal conceded more than that in their last Champions League match alone.
Striker Antoine Griezmann is in his usual impressive form for the side this year, with 26 goals and 13 assists in 43 matches. Goalkeeper Jan Oblak casts a formidable figure in behind the defence, and only adds to their solidity at the back.
Diego Simeone’s side are surely favourites for the tournament, it’s up to Arsenal to change that.
Predicted Team
Henrikh Mkhitaryan is recovering well, and Arsene Wenger says he should be available for the first-leg if all goes well. David Ospina is back after missing the last round. Jack Wilshere is a doubt though, with a small ankle problem.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is cup-tied, but otherwise Arsenal should have their strongest side available.
When Is It?
The first-leg is at the Emirates Stadium, and will take place on Thursday April 26, at 20:05. Tickets for the match have already sold out.
The second-leg is at the Estadio Metropolitano in Madrid, on Thursday May 3, also at 20:05. Tickets are currently on sale if you have enough away credits.
Plan Your Trip
If you need a hotel in Madrid close to the Estadio Metropolitano, check Cheaprooms.co.uk. For more affordable accommodations, you can see Travelmag.com‘s selection of the best hostels in the city.