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.
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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.