According to former Arsenal player Ray Parlour, Arsenal’s chances of overcoming their 1-0 deficit against Paris Saint-Germain in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final may depend on Thomas Partey’s comeback.
Ousmane Dembélé gave Arsenal the early lead at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night, and the Ligue 1 winners took control of the game from the start.
Due to Partey’s ban, he was unable to play, and Arsenal suffered as they were unable to control the pace and establish themselves in midfield.
Partey’s return could help the Gunners regain control in the middle of the pitch, Parlour emphasized in an interview with Tribalfootball.com.
“Arsenal got into the game after around 20 minutes in the first leg and with Partey back, it’s so important Arsenal win the midfield duels and get on the ball.
“Scoring first in Paris is vital for Arsenal and in (Bukayo) Saka and (Gabriel) Martinelli, they have the tool to do this. Merino as number 9 will also help and he can cause PSG problems.”
He added that Arsenal must avoid conceding early in the return leg.
“It’s not over, but it’s key that Arsenal don’t concede early and can grow into the game in Paris. You look at Arsenal’s away record in Europe this season and it is pretty good.”
