Arsenal vs Rennes: 5 key players in another unnecessary nail-biter

4. Alex Iwobi

Alex Iwobi did not start against Manchester United, as Unai Emery instead decided to match the Red Devils position for position. As such, there simply was no place for the young Nigerian, with two strikers and a No. 10 the preferred method of getting the job done.

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That said, Iwobi will find his way back into the starting XI, which will be an isolated striker set due to Alexandre Lacazette‘s continued suspension, and will be called up on to do his usual thing. With the solidity of having a wholesome midfield foundation behind him, he will have creative license to leave an imprint on this match.

It was his goal that spared us an even more unfortunate deficit in the first leg, so his confidence is surely going to be higher, knowing that he was one of the only players to get the better of the French side. Even if it was (kind of) by accident.

If he can play that uninhibited, direct style of attacking play that he is so keen on mastering, Rennes will be in a tough position. And that’s what we want, isn’t it?

Next up, familiar tidings at No. 3.