EPL Index
·24 October 2023
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Yahoo sportsEPL Index
·24 October 2023
When the smoke of the Premier League battles clears, Arsenal find themselves on a plane to Seville. The promise of European glory in the Champions League beckons, and the Gunners hope to etch another page in their storied continental history.
For Arsenal, this season has been an emotional rollercoaster. An unexpected hiccup in Lens gave them a bitter taste of defeat. But resilience is a trademark of Mikel Arteta’s boys. Bouncing back with aplomb, they scraped out four points against Premier League biggies – Manchester City and Chelsea.
The Champions League Group B table is still very much a puzzle, with no team safe from the unpredictabilities of European football. But the Londoners have a keen eye on the top spot.
Sevilla’s story is not much different. Their European dreams have seen a muted start with stalemates against PSV and Lens. Their domestic struggles are hard to ignore too. A mere three points above the La Liga drop zone does little to boost their confidence. But, holding Real Madrid to a draw? That’s no minor feat.
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Sevilla’s lineup sees the return of Erik Lamela post his muscle mishap, while Marcao and Mariano Diaz might sit this one out. The experienced Sergio Ramos, fresh from his summer return, is anticipated to lead the troops. Eyes will be on Jesus Navas and Marcos Acuna as they attempt to muzzle Arsenal’s flanks.
Arsenal’s goalpost are set to witness a return. After missing the Chelsea clash due to familial joys, Aaron Ramsdale is likely to be back between the sticks. This poses a dilemma for Arteta, given David Raya’s recent shaky display at Stamford Bridge. The midfield might see Thomas Partey weaving his magic, possibly replacing Jorginho. There’s a hustle for the starting spots with Leandro Trossard, Fabio Vieira, and Takehiro Tomiyasu all in the fray.
The last encounter in Lens saw Arsenal deprived of their young talisman, Bukayo Saka. It set a gloomy mood, reflecting in their performance against Chelsea too. Sevilla, with their recent display against Real Madrid, have shown they can be fortress-like at home. An Arsenal forward line, still searching for its rhythm, might find it challenging.
Predicted Outcome: 1-2 Arsenal
The drama, the anticipation, the European nights – Sevilla and Arsenal are set to add another chapter. One thing’s certain – the Champions League never disappoints.