Arsenal will face Atletico Madrid in the semi finals of Europa League. It will be more of a battle between the defense of Atletico Madrid and the attack of Arsenal. The Gunners must have to win the Europa League to qualify for the Champions League in the next season as their hope of finishing in the top four in Premier League is almost over. On the other hand, for Atletico Madrid its all about their pride.
‘Arsenalcore’ will today analyse one of the ‘Key Battles’ that supporters will have to look out for this match.
Aaron Ramsey and Saul Niguez will have to dominate the game from the middle of the park, which makes them one of the most reliable performer for their respective sides. Both the attacking midfielders will be tested to prove their class throughout the course of both the legs.
Aaron Ramsey :
The Welsh international mainly operates in the center of the field. Ramsey have a good offensive and defensive balance. His ball control and ability to create the attacking moves are the strengths of his game-play.
Once upon a time in 2013-14 season, he was compared with Steven Gerrard as he possesses all the attributes that is needed to be an attacking midfielder. His blistering pace along with great technique is makes him superior to the other players. His tackling ability and passing accuracy are also considered to be his strengths.
Ramsey have already scored 10 goals and assisted seven for the Gunners this season. In a big match like this, Ramsey’s experience will be a big factor for Arsenal. His presence in the midfield will help Gunners dominate the game right from its heart.
Saul Niguez :
The left footed Spaniard is going to one of the key players of Atletico Madrid in this clash. While the Arsenal defenders will be busy to mark the likes of Griezmann, Correa and Koke, this guy will surely get some free space in the middle of the pitch. Saul have to utilize those chances to help his team going through to the final of the Europa League this season.
The positioning sense and ball control ability are Saul Niguez’s strengths. He is a perfect fit in the formation of Diego Simeone. The player’s defensive quality is certainly better than most of the players of his age.
Diego Simeone will prefer to play with an Orthodox 4-4-2 formation against the Gunners. The responsibility of providing the through balls to the attackers will be given to Saul Niguez and Co.
Saul has scored 6 goals assisted three for the Atletico Madrid this season. This will be a big test for Saul to perform in the big stage. A great performance in this Semifinal against the Gunners could also ensure his position in the star studded Spanish squad for the upcoming World Cup in Russia.
