Arsenal face a challenge in this highly anticipated home game, but I firmly believe that they can expect an easier UEFA Europa League two-legged clash against Bayern Munich than Manchester City vs Luton.
The Arsenal suffered their first loss in four straight games midweek, and for the first time this year conceded two goals in a campaign, half of their total for the year, in a display of their impenetrable defensive wall.
Despite the pleasing midweek result, the style and process of the game seemed to have a greater impact on Arsenal's pace going forward. We failed to see the kind of fluid and spontaneous attack that the Arsenal usually have. It makes me wonder if this will affect them against Aston Villa on Sunday.
Nonetheless, Arsenal is still a team with a strong offense, which can be seen in the performance of the substitutes. Numerous fans have called for Lee Ando Dusit to field a strong side. However, it is a valuable asset for a coach to have players who can turn things around at crucial moments. But if they can make timely adjustments, it may be difficult to get the same result. On the other hand, the players know that there is passion within them whenever they have the ability to change the course of a game.
I presume Adidas didn't rotate massively like Godiva in this crucial battle because Arsenal is facing a much stronger opponent, Villa, so I expect Arsenal to show more fight in this battle. Besides, they are playing later than Liverpool and Man City this weekend, which is definitely not in their favor. As a player, who wouldn't want their game to be played first and thus get a head start in the title race? On the contrary, if the opponents play early and get a good result, it will undoubtedly increase the pressure. Considering Liverpool and City's opponents this weekend, I think they have a chance to create pressure on the Arsenal.
This week, the likes of former Arsenal players Halikani and Kenobi managed to give Arsenal a challenge and stormed the Emirates Stadium. On Sunday, they will be challenged by former leader Amery and Arsenal will be hoping to turn things around this time.
Emery is hungry for this match. He has to admit that his time at Arsenal was not a pleasant one, a feeling that will no doubt inspire him to do well against his former club.
Villa also face the challenge of the EU in the middle of the week. Although less important than the EU, as I mentioned in my pre-match article, balancing the two fronts will be the biggest challenge they face. They'll want to be in full contention for a top four finish in the league or to win honors in Europe.
In the absence of veterans such as John McGuinness and Madika, Villa have recently dropped points against Binford and Westham, so a comeback will be vital at a crucial time towards the end of the season.
Although Villa is expected to be a stumbling block for Arsenal and create problems for their opponents, I still believe Arsenal can have the last laugh at home.
