As Arsenal gears up for a pivotal Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, the spotlight turns to the midfield.
More eyes will be watching the partnership between Thomas Partey and Declan Rice, and how it can help the Gunners unlock the midfield dynamic that PSG have.
In the first leg, Arsenal faced challenges breaking down PSG’s possession-heavy approach, which shows control in central areas and intense pressing upon losing the ball.
Thomas Partey’s return from suspension is timely. His role as a defensive anchor allows Declan Rice to operate in a more advanced, box-to-box capacity. He can utilize his energy and passing range to disrupt PSG’s rhythm and initiate counterattacks.
This tactical adjustment could be crucial in exploiting spaces left by PSG’s aggressive pressing and in transitioning quickly from defense to attack.
With Partey providing stability and Rice given the license to press and drive forward, Arsenal can aim to control the midfield, limit PSG’s possession dominance, and create scoring opportunities.
If Arsenal can move the ball freely in the midfield without fear of getting swamped whenever they lose it, they can have an edge going into this second leg and a chance to overturn the 1-0 deficit.
