Last year’s finalists Arsenal return to the Europa League this Thursday and face a stern test, away to German side Eintracht Frankfurt.
Frankfurt were last year’s semi-finalists, losing to eventual winners Chelsea on penalties. They also finished seventh in the Bundesliga last season .
Arsenal come into this game in a lacklustre mood, having drawn 2-2 after throwing away a 2-0 lead to bottom of the league Watford. But, the Europa League gives Arsenal the opportunity to bounce back against tough opposition.
The Gunners begin their campaign in the group stages, however, Frankfurt have had three qualifying matches. Die Adler beat Flora Tallinn of Estonia, FC Vaduz of Liechtenstein and Strasbourg of France to make it to the group stage.
Frankfurt lost some key players this summer; top scorer Luka Jovic departed for Real Madrid, Ante Rebic for AC Milan and Sebastien Haller for West Ham. However, Arsenal should not let the guards down, as Frankfurt have played four games this season and won two, with both victories coming at home.
We’ve taken a look at some key battles that could decide where the game is won and lost.
