Lauren backs Arsenal to seize defining week against Atlético and win the title race
Lauren backs Arsenal to seize defining week against Atlético and win the title race Lauren believes Arsenal have both the mentality and attacking quality to overcome Atlético Madrid and move a step closer to a first Champions League title, while insisting the Premier League is already destined for north London. The former right-back won five major trophies in seven seasons under Arsene Wenger. The Cameroon international was an integral member of the 2004 Invincibles and key to the Arsenal side that reached the 2006 UCL final.
He admits the return to the latter stages of the competition brings back strong memories, even if he was suspended for the showpiece itself. “Yes, it gives me good memories, especially the one that we won against Villarreal in the semi-final. It was fantastic,” he said.
“Unfortunately I couldn’t play the final, but the team did very well to reach it. For the game tonight, we have to control the emotional factor. ” The sides are tied at one-all after the first leg in Spain and Lauren believes that composure will be decisive against an experienced Atlético side.
“If you control the emotional factor, then you will be able to express yourself,” he said. “The team will understand the tactic and play with freedom. ” He points to Arsenal’s attacking options as a key reason for confidence, particularly with several players peaking at the right time.
“I always say that if the players in the last third reach this moment of the competition at their highest level, we have a big chance,” he said. “I see that Viktor Gyökeres is scoring goals, Bukayo Saka is back and scoring goals, and you have Trossard and Martinelli too. “Eberechi Eze has been an absolutely fantastic signing and he’s been playing very well.