Villarreal vs Arsenal: 5 players to watch out for | UEFA Europa League 2020-21

Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League
Arsenal v Tottenham Hotspur - Premier League

#3 Pau Torres | Villarreal

Villarreal CF v Granada CF - La Liga Santander
Villarreal CF v Granada CF - La Liga Santander

Pau Torres is currently one of the most sought-after central defenders in world football and if rumors are to be believed, the Spaniard is a top target for Arsenal this summer. Nevertheless, when the two sides meet tomorrow, Torres' will look to keep things tight at the back for his side and produce an assured display, as he has done so several times this season.

An elegant left-footed central defender by trade, Torres is quite strong aerially and is also comfortable with the ball at his feet. Arsenal could have Alex Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang back for the UEL showdown in Spain, so the Spaniard will have to be on his toes to keep a clean sheet for Villarreal.


#2 Emile Smith Rowe | Arsenal

Arsenal v Everton - Premier League
Arsenal v Everton - Premier League

Emile Smith Rowe has been the surprise package of the season for Arsenal, with the exciting midfielder finally getting his big break at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners were in torrid form towards the end of 2020, but the Englishman's introduction coincided with an upturn in fortunes for the Gunners.

The 20-year-old's energy in the center of the park has been a massive breath of fresh air for Arsenal, while his work rate and versatility has also been on show several times since the turn of the year.

Smith Rowe is one of Arsenal's crown jewels and has quickly become a fan favorite at the club. Arsenal usually tend to dominate games when he's on song, so Arteta will hope for the 20-year-old to reward his trust in him with a match-winning display.


#1 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang | Arsenal

Arsenal v Liverpool - Premier League
Arsenal v Liverpool - Premier League

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has endured an indifferent season due to a combination of factors. The Gabonese hitman, however, is a proper matchwinner on his day and could well produce another crowning moment for the Gunners in a big game.

The 31-year-old has scored just 14 times across 33 appearances in all competitions this season, making the 2020-21 campaign his worst season at the Emirates Stadium statistically.

Aubameyang missed the last few games after being diagnosed with malaria while on international duty, but he's back fit now and raring to do. He has been underwhelming, to say the least, but Arsenal need their talismanic striker to step up and produce the goods for them in front of goal if they are to have a realistic chance of securing qualification.


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