Arsenal manager Unai Emery gives thumbs-up. (Getty Images)
Arsenal’s top-four hopes are all but over after a dismal 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday. However, the Gunners have been brilliant in the Europa League this season and winning the competition is now a necessity to qualify for the Champions League next season.
Alexandre Lacazette’s brace and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s late goal has put Arsenal in pole position to reach the finals but a second-leg tie against Valencia at the Mestalla will be a daunting task that Unai Emery needs to overcome on Thursday.
Long-term absentees Hector Bellerin, Rob Holding, Danny Welbeck, Aaron Ramsey and Denis Suarez are all ruled out till the end of the season. Unai Emery will have everybody else at his disposal for the must-win game on Thursday.
The veteran was honoured at the Emirates for his contribution at the club and he will be looking to sign off on a high.
The 21-year-old missed out of the weekend’s game due to suspension but his return to the lineup will be crucial for the Gunners in the difficult game.
The Greek international has struggled at times recently but he will have to be at his best to help the Gunners go through on Thursday.
The skipper will have a chance to erase the horrific memories of last season with a victory on Thursday.
Back in his old country, Monreal will have to be alert to keep out the likes of Rodrigo and Guedes at the Mestalla.
The Bosnian was very good in the first-leg against the Spaniards and he should continue his form on the left flank on Thursday.
Xhaka didn’t have the best of games against Brighton on Sunday but he is an integral part of Arsenal’s side and he should start again against Valencia.
The Uruguayan had an outstanding impact off the bench against the Spanish side in the first leg and he should start on Thursday to shut up shop.
The german’s creativity will be hugely important for the Gunners and if he can manage to get the Gunners a goal, they will surely make it to the finals.
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The man of the match from the first-leg, Lacazette has bee outstanding for the Gunners this season and he is a sure starter on Thursday.
The former Dortmund man’s late goal could well prove to the decisive factor that sends Arsenal to Baku. He should start next to Lacazette against Valencia on Thursday.
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