In a clash filled with subplots, former Tottenham Hotspur player Erik Lamela has added another layer to the Sevilla vs Arsenal match.
Lamela, now at Sevilla, speaks candidly about the match’s significance due to the longstanding North London rivalry between Tottenham and Arsenal.
Erik Lamela, the former Tottenham Hotspur player now with Sevilla, has expressed his motivation ahead of his team’s Champions League clash with Arsenal.
Sevilla and Arsenal, both vying for a secure position in Group B, are set to go head-to-head on Tuesday.
Lamela, who spent eight years at Tottenham Hotspur, is no stranger to the rivalry that exists between the North London clubs.
During his pre-match press conference, he reflected on what the upcoming match means to him, especially given his history with Arsenal’s local rivals.
Quoted by Marca, Lamela said, “Arsenal work very well as a team, being Premier League, physical and fast. I always want to win.
“In the past I played for Tottenham and it means something to me. I love them very much. This game is special because of the rivalry, yes.”
Lamela made the move to Sevilla in the summer of 2021 after making 256 appearances for Tottenham, where he recorded 37 goals and 45 assists and picked up far fewer red cards than he deserved.
Both teams have had mixed fortunes in the Champions League thus far.
Sevilla have had a less than stellar start, securing draws against Lens and PSV Eindhoven.
The Spanish club is in need of a win against Arsenal to bolster their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.
On the other hand, Arsenal got off to an excellent start with a 4-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven, but subsequently lost 2-1 to Lens.
The Gunners could certainly benefit from a win to solidify their standing in Group B.
Given the context, Lamela’s remarks have added an extra layer of intrigue to a match already brimming with significance for both clubs.
The game could prove pivotal for Sevilla and Arsenal alike as they strive to make their mark in Europe’s elite competition.
As Lamela pointed out, the match holds a particular resonance for him due to his lengthy spell with Tottenham, and it will be interesting to see whether his “special motivation” has any impact on the game’s outcome or if it simply results in him running around kicking Arsenal players.