Wenger: Let’s compete with the big boys
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has urged his players to seize the opportunity to show they can compete with Manchester City when the Gunners face the Premier League leaders at the Etihad Stadium today.
Following a string of home victories, the Frenchman is keen for his side to make a statement against City.
“We have an opportunity to show we can do well against a big team away from home,” he said. “It is one we want to take and I’m sure everyone in our camp will be focused on that.”
City head into the game on the back of Wednesday’s impressive 4-2 Champions League triumph at Serie A pace-setters Napoli, while the Gunners qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League on Thursday with a goalless home draw against Red Star Belgrade.
Aaron Ramsey could have a key part to play at the Etihad, and Wenger believes the midfielder is thriving in his new central role.
“I think he is calmer in the final third,” Wenger said. “He always had many opportunities but rushed his decisions or execution sometimes.
“But, especially when you look at the goal against Swansea last weekend, a few years ago he would not have had that chance in the same composed way.
“He is more mature, he is 27 now and that is an important stage for a midfielder.
“I used him sometimes more out wide to balance the team because he can give you that defensive work, but I like him central. He is a big player for us.”
Arsenal will be hoping left-back Sead Kolasinac overcomes a hip injury after limping out of last weekend’s game.
Wenger changed his entire team in midweek, but the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Alexandre Lacazette are in line for recalls.
Germany playmaker Ozil returned to action last month after a knee injury, and his boss hopes he will trouble City.
“I would say at the moment Ozil is in a very good shape physically,” Wenger said.
“People talk at the moment only about Sanchez but for us, Ozil will be important as well. He will have to contribute a lot to the way we play.
“As well he can be an asset every time we attack because he is a guy who can create chances.”