Arsenal: Europa League ‘hot potato’ may produce too much heat

Arsenal travels to Russia for their second leg of this Europa League clash and it’s already being labeled a “Hot Potato” by some. Can Arsenal brave Russia?

Arsenal faces CSKA Moscow in the next round of the Europa League, a challenging prospect for any English club. With tensions high between the two nations, it only makes things worse for traveling fans.

The Gunners will host the Russian club CSKA Moscow first on April 5th and then travel to Moscow on the 12th. With tensions between the two countries reaching a boiling point, it’s safe to say it won’t be a welcoming atmosphere. Fans are being warned by the clubs fan group, describing the draw as a ‘hot potato’. With tensions so high is it a good idea to follow the club to Russia?

With UK and Russia’s political tensions so high, supporters have been told to expect harassment, anti-British sentiment, and protests. Boris Johnson said it was “overwhelmingly likely” that Russia Prime Minister Vladimir Putin was to blame for these incidents.

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His comments come after a double agent and his daughter was poisoned on British soil. Both are still in critical condition. Saying things like that doesn’t help traveling fans or the players playing in a potentially hostile atmosphere.

Supporters have been asked to remain vigilant and avoid protests or demonstrations. If you’re a football supporter you just want to go and support your club, not having to worry about hate against your country.

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Well, both clubs have stated that safety and security measures will be taken more seriously. With the World Cup quickly approaching, it would be a good idea for Russia to try and clean up their image. But should they have to?

Yes, any country who hosts the World Cup should be inviting and welcoming to all supporters. Brazil heightened security when it hosted the 2014 World Cup. The World Cup should be a happy time for supporters to come and support their countries. The Euros was a competition with plenty of riots and protests, Russia should take some pointers form how the police force handled it out there.

How did CSKA Moscow get here?

CSKA Moscow got to the quarters by coming back from behind to beat Lyon 3-3 on aggregate. They a have the potential to be a very dangerous side with players like Ahmed Musa and Vithino, they could really cause the Gunners some problems.

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Arsenal should be going through to the semis. They have the quality and experience to do so. They will particularly need plenty of quality and prowess going forward. Alexandre Lacazette will be back and running at full speed by the first leg.