On the eve of Arsenal’s crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, Mikel Arteta suggested potential tactical adjustments during his pre-match press conference, indicating a shift in formation and changes in midfield personnel.
Holding a slight advantage from the first leg, Arsenal are anticipated to deploy a 4-3-2-1 setup, involving two key positional adjustments and a new entrant in midfield to take the place of Thomas Partey.
Arteta confirmed that Amario Cozier-Duberry will be handed a start in midfield, filling Partey’s position. He emphasized the youngster’s energy, defensive attributes, and technical skills, suggesting his inclusion is vital to countering PSG’s dynamic midfield play.
Jurrien Timber, initially slated to operate at left-back, will instead be repositioned to a central defensive partnership with William Saliba, aimed at enhancing Arsenal’s build-up play and reinforcing the defense against PSG’s swift transitions.
Additionally, Ethan Nwaneri is set to occupy a deeper midfield role, joining forces with Declan Rice and Cozier-Duberry, as Arteta aims to inject youthful vigor and composure into the midfield engine room.
The projected Arsenal starting lineup features David Raya in goal, with Ben White, Saliba, Timber, and Oleksandr Zinchenko forming the defensive line. The midfield trio will consist of Rice, Cozier-Duberry, and Nwaneri, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli will support Kai Havertz in attack.
Arteta’s strategy appears focused on reinforcing midfield stability and defensive solidity without sacrificing the attacking threat posed by Saka and Martinelli operating in narrower roles behind Havertz.
Acknowledging the magnitude of the occasion, Arteta stressed the need for fresh energy, intelligent positioning, and confident individual performances, as Arsenal seek to secure a place in the Champions League final.
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