Arsenal is going into their game against Stade Rennes FC with a distinct advantage with them. Arsenal has never lost a game away to any French Opposition in their history. This is a record they will be hoping to continue.
Arsenal will be playing the first leg away from home and given their last match which they drew against Tottenham; they have reason to worry. Only competing in the Europa League, this is their only hope of getting any Championships in Europe this season. With that in mind, this match is extremely important.
They will be hoping that their players help them to a win against Rennes, and give them an advantage heading into the match at Emirates.
Here are three players who will be key when Arsenal plays Stade Rennes FC.
Aaron Ramsey
The Welsh Midfielder has been one of these players for Arsenal, whose spurts of excellence has taken the team past many hurdles. It was Ramsey’s goal against Tottenham which helped Arsenal to at least a draw.
Ramsey has mostly made appearances from the bench this season, with 13 of his 24 Premier League appearances being from the bench. However, he has been prolific this season in helping his club secure a better position. With four goals and six assists, it has been a good season for the midfielder. In the Europa League games he has played, he has scored once and has had an average of 72 passes per game.
It will be interesting to see what sort of chances he can create for his side in France, while at the same time playing a slightly defensive role as well.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan
The Arsenal midfielder, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, has made huge strides forward since arriving at Arsenal. His time with the side has been good for him, and he has become possibly their top player.
Creating chances for his team at every single opportunity, he has six assists to his name this season. He has also scored six goals, but on average in each match, he has 1.9 key passes and 78.6 passes total.
He could easily be the link through which play could be created for Arsenal.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang
Competing for his position in the side against Lacazette, Aubameyang has appeared for Arsenal on 24 different occasions. He has been prolific in front of goal with 16 goals to his name.
He will be the player that Edson Andre Sitoe, also known as Mexer, will have to look out for in this match.
Aubameyang will not have the easiest job in the world getting past the two defenders, but with the support of Ramsey and Mkhitaryan, Aubameyang will be critical to Arsenal’s chances in the match.
Stats via Whoscored.