There will be more than just three points at stake when Arsenal host Eintracht Frankfurt at the Emirates Stadium on Thursday. First, an Arsenal win would earn them qualification to the knockout stages of the Europa League for the third season in a row.
However, wins seem to have run off of fashion at Arsenal, the team is in a bad run of form and has not tasted victory in their last six matches in all competitions. In their last match, the Gunners needed a last gasp equalizer to draw 2-2 at home to Southampton.
It brings into sharp focus the future of Arsenal manager Unai Emery. The Spaniard is clearly in the last days at the London club and he seems to know it too.
Asked about where his future lies Emery replied; “My future is today and tomorrow. My job is to prepare the match tomorrow, to look only at the match tomorrow.”
For Eintracht Frankfurt, revenge will be on their minds. The Germans were comprehensively beaten by Arsenal in the first leg. Joe Willock, Bukayo Saka, and Pierre Emerick Aubameyang were on target as Arsenal won 3-0.
The team is however not having the best of periods and has lost its last three matches including a 2-0 loss at home in their last match against Wolfsburg. They have won two and lost two in the Europa League this season.
Team News
Arsenal will be without Spain midfielder Dani Ceballos who is out until mid-December while Hector Bellerin and Sead Kolasina remain doubtful with small strains. Emile Smith Rowe will also not be involved having featured for the Unde 23s on Wednesday.
Betting Tip
Frankfurt is doing badly and Arsenal is in desperate need of a win. Unai Emery will probably field a strong line up which should see Arsenal win.
The match kicks off at 11 PM East African time.