Arsenal is set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their highly-anticipated UEFA Champions League semi-final on Tuesday night. The match will be broadcast live on TNT Sports and discovery+. However, before this crucial encounter, they have a Premier League match against Crystal Palace on Wednesday night.
Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has made it clear that he will not rest his star players for the Premier League clash with Crystal Palace. This decision comes despite the looming UEFA Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain next week.
Arteta insists on naming a strong team for both matches, emphasizing that resting players could disrupt his side's "rhythm". He believes that maintaining momentum is key to their success in both competitions.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, said:
"We cannot think in those terms. When the players are fit and available and want to play, they have to play. They are at their best when they are playing and they have consistency in their performances and physically and emotionally they are good. They have the rhythm and that is when they are at their best.
"If they are not available, there is no discussion. If they are not in a good condition to perform, we are not going to play them. But if they are, we will play them."
Arsenal to prioritize UCL amidst Premier League gap
With a 13-point gap separating them from Premier League leaders Liverpool, Arsenal's priority now shifts towards the Champions League. If Arsenal loses their midweek game against Crystal Palace, Liverpool will clinch the title.
However, Arteta remains undeterred by this scenario and continues to focus on preparing his team for every game without compromising player performance or team rhythm.
Bukayo Saka sustained a knock during their recent victory over Ipswich which required physio attention. However, Arteta provided an encouraging update about Saka’s condition stating that he is recovering well and should be fit to play soon.
Beneficial break before big game
Interestingly enough, there is a free weekend between the clash with Crystal Palace and the first leg of the Champions league semi-final against PSG. This break could prove beneficial as it provides an opportunity for rest and recovery ahead of one of their most important games this season.
Arteta's decision to not rest his players ahead of the UEFA Champions League semi-final demonstrates his commitment to maintaining team rhythm and momentum. Arsenal fans will be eagerly waiting to see how this strategy plays out in their upcoming matches.
