Arsenal vs Porto: 3 catalyst players who could secure the win for Mikel Arteta

In the biggest game of the season so far, Arsenal must overturn a 0-1 deficit against Porto in the 2nd leg of the UEFA Champions League. Mikel Arteta has envisioned a place in the quarterfinal, so here are the 3 catalyst players he must rely on to secure the win...

Arsenal vs Porto: 3 catalyst players who could secure the win

1. Declan Rice

It goes without saying that Declan Rice is a game-changing player. As a European champion himself, he has an exceptional level of midfield intelligence, which could be best utilised in this pressurised match.

Rice is known to come up with winning goals to turn the game around, as notable goals this season have come against Manchester United, Luton and Chelsea. There's no denying that he's the first name on the team-sheet.

2. Gabriel Jesus

So far this season, Gabriel Jesus has been the standout performer in the Champions League. Having recently returned from injury, Jesus could be in-line for a place on the wing, with Gabriel Martinelli out injured for this match.

Jesus has also come up with some big moments this season, so he is an exciting prospect to watch in this 2nd leg tie.

3. Jorginho

Jorginho is a Champions League winner and he will aim to bring a level of composure to the midfield, which could startle Porto. Everybody excepts Arsenal to go all-guns blazing but this has never been Arteta's approach, so playing the Italian midfielder will help the game to remain balanced.

Jorginho runs out of contract at the end of the season, but he has been a great signing since he joined in 2023. The former Chelsea man will aim to dictate the play and as mentioned, calm down the tempo in the centre of the park.

What is your score prediction for Arsenal vs Porto?