In the 39th minute of tonight’s Europa League knockout tie between Arsenal and Olympiacos, David Luiz almost cost the Gunners their lead minutes before halftime with some trademark ball-playing.
Bernd Leno slotted it to the centre-back, with Luiz taking a touch inside before passing the ball out of danger, despite the fact that he was being heavily pressured by Giorgios Masouras.
Luiz’s reckless attempt at a pass was intercepted by the Olympiacos attacker, who squandered a glorious opportunity as he fired completely wide of the post from 10 yards out.
See More: Video: Martin Odegaard scores with thunderous strike for Arsenal as Real Madrid star makes up for early miss against Olympiacos
On a second thought, considering David Luiz will likely be starting on Sunday. Kane (C) seems like a no brainer. pic.twitter.com/mvirfww7zE
— FPL_Masterpiece (@FPL_Masterpiece) March 11, 2021
Pictures from beIN Sports and BT Sport.
It’s clear to everyone that Mikel Arteta would like the Gunners to boast a total football philosophy, but the side really need to consider avoiding playing out of the defence in situations like this.