The countdown is launched for Arsenal. Last night, Mikel Arteta's band played a match against Crystal Palace counting for the 34th day of the Premier League. Obliged to share the points (2-2), the London club can now focus 100% on its semi-final go to the Champions League against Paris Saint-Germain. And if doubts exist on the side of the French media on the preparation “to the economy” of Parisians, Arsenal is not spared either. Earlier in the day, we told you that the English press was not tender with William Saliba.
The French defender stood out because of yet another dumpling made last night. An amazing fragility that comes at the worst moment. Will the former Stéphanois be able to pull himself together next Tuesday? While waiting to know it, Mikel Arteta must also manage other puzzles. Obliged to do without the services of Thomas Partey (suspended), Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Jorginho, Gabriel Magalhães and Riccardo Calafiori (all injured), the Spaniard has other additional concerns. In attack, faced with this impressive cascade of injuries, Arteta is forced to install Leandro Trossard at the number 9 post.
Lots of physical seeds
“Yes, he is certainly ready to play any post. We must make certain adjustments, not because of PSG, but because of the situation we have known with Thomas (Party) and a few other players, but it is a good thing, because the team is adaptability, versatility so that some players can play in different positions. It is very important, especially when we have the number of players that we currently have ”said the London coach before the match against Palace. And for the moment, the Belgian, who was playing in front of last night, gives him full satisfaction since he scored four goals in his last four games. Can this solution face a large European caliber? Again, uncertainty is in order.
Finally, Ben White and Mikel Merino also brought their share of doubts to their coach. Absent last night, the two Gunners were affected against Ipswich Town. “They couldn't be involved, otherwise they would have been. Unfortunately, after the match (against Ipswich), we had problems and they are not in good shape. Yes, we will have to wait and see, they were unable to be part of the team today “Arta said at a press conference after yesterday's match. Very versatile element, capable of playing in number 9 and in the middle, Merino would be a big loss for Arsenal if he was not given in time. Five days before the C1 shock, the Spanish coach is now praying that his whole troop takes advantage of these recovery days to be there next Tuesday.
