Arsenal will take on Manchester United at the Emirates in what will be one of the most enticing Premier League match-ups this weekend.
However, Arsenal slumped to a 1-3 defeat against Stade Rennais in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, which attracted a host of criticism even from their own set of fans.
And with the Gunners due to host an in-form Manchester United side on Sunday, the pressure will certainly mount on Unai Emery as well as the players to make a turnaround.
In this article, we will talk about three Arsenal stars who need to step up their game against the Red Devils this weekend.
Sokratis
Many fans and experts consider Sokratis as the best performing Arsenal defender this season but the Greek international was awful in the defeat to Stade Rennais in midweek.
His poor positioning allowed the opposition attackers to manipulate the Arsenal backline in the final third, even though the former Dortmund defender did suffer a slight niggle earlier in the first half.
Sokratis also made a couple of terrible challenges, including an unnecessary slide tackle to stop Hatem Ben-Arfa that saw him get booked and then red-carded for two bookable offences.
Therefore, it’s probably needless to say that this experienced defender needs to improve his overall positioning and be more prudent in his tackling if he is to stop the likes of Marcus Rashford and co. this weekend.
Aaron Ramsey
Aaron Ramsey had very little time to make an impact on proceedings against Stade Rennais as he came on for Mesut Ozil in the 70th minute.
But, the Welshman is more than a guaranteed starter against Manchester United on Sunday, where his intricate passing, as well as clever movements in the final third, will certainly test the opposition backline.
Ramsey, without a doubt, has been one of the best performers for Arsenal this season and the onus will be on him to provide a spark going forward as the Gunners look to stop the Ole juggernaut.
Alexandre Lacazette
The Frenchman had to watch on in frustration as his side succumbed to a shock defeat. His suspension in Europe means the striker will be fresh and raring to go against United on Sunday. He has 3 goals and an assist in his last 4 Premier League games and will once again pose the biggest threat for the Old Trafford outfit.
His finishing has been on point this season and with the match expected to be a tight affair, chances might come at a premium for the home side and Lacazette has to capitalise on whatever service gets.
