One UEFA rule gives Arsenal a Champions League edge

Take notes, Premier League.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal | Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/GettyImages

There is a possibility that Arsenal could face Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League Round of 16, depending on the results of the playoffs. If that happens, Piero Hincapie, who plays at Arsenal on loan from Leverkusen, is eligible to play.

This might surprise some fans, as UEFA ruling is different to Premier League ruling. In the Premier League, a loaned player cannot play against his former club.

Unsurprisingly, UEFA is much more up to date with the times and doesn't restrict its teams with boring, age-old rules that don't benefit the game in any way. UEFA has a fairer playing field, and it doesn't allow teams to exert any control over who their opposing team can start.

Piero Hincapie is able to play for Arsenal against Bayer Leverkusen if that draw is made, and that's an amazing boost.

Piero Hincapie can play for Arsenal in the Champions League

The Champions League is not a competition for which Mikel Arteta will rotate his squad for. Sure, the Gunners have a greater chance of lifting the Premier League title, but Arteta will have an eye on breaking the infamous Champions League hoodoo as well.

Nevertheless, even with squad rotation out of the picture, Piero Hincapie could still start for Arsenal. He's been one of Arsenal's surprise packages this season, and he's more than justified his place in the squad since joining in he summer.

Hincapie has recent experience of playing in a European final. When he played under Xabi Alonso at Leverkusen, he was part of the squad that reached the final of the Europa League. Unfortunately, Hincapie's side didn't win that trophy, but they won everything else that year.

At Arsenal, Hincapie offers something different to his teammates. He is strong in his approach and he isn't afraid to get stuck in. His well-round play makes him adapt well in all thirds of the pitch, but it really is that aggression in his play which has benefitted Arsenal the most so far this season.

Needless to say, Piero Hincapie is as versatile as they come. This is a big reason why he was signed, since Mikel Arteta favours versatility in his players, particularly in the defence.

Arsenal find out their opponents on Friday morning (local time). At this stage, they will face Bayer Leverkusen, Atalanta, or Borussia Dortmund

A lot remains to be seen, but at least Arsenal fans can bank on Piero Hincapie being available to play either fixture.

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