Paul Merson has suggested that Mikel Arteta rest three players for Arsenal’s Premier League home game against Brentford on Saturday.
Arsenal legend Paul Merson has voiced his opinion on the upcoming Premier League clash between Arsenal and Brentford, urging manager Mikel Arteta to rest three pivotal players. Following Arsenal’s impressive 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-final first leg, Merson believes the Gunners should prioritize their European campaign over domestic league matches.
Merson has specifically named Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard as players who should be rested for the Brentford game. He emphasized the importance of keeping these stars fresh for the second leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, scheduled for April 16. According to Merson, Arsenal’s chances of winning the Premier League title are slim, making the Champions League their primary focus.
“Brentford are not an easy team to face in the Premier League,” Merson stated. “I don’t think Mikel Arteta believes his team are through to the semi-finals of the Champions League despite the 3-0 win. So I am expecting him to rest a few players against Brentford.” he told Sportskeeda
Merson’s advice comes at a crucial time, as Arsenal aims to balance their domestic and European commitments. With Liverpool holding an 11-point lead in the Premier League standings, Arsenal’s focus on the Champions League could be a strategic move to secure silverware this season.
The match against Brentford is set to kick off at 5:30 PM at the Emirates Stadium. Fans will be eager to see how Arteta manages his squad and whether he heeds Merson’s advice to rest his key players.
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