Will Arteta Play A Striker?

 

One criticism Arteta faced in the first leg was starting the game without a recognised striker. Emile Smith Rowe started through the middle, supported by Pepe, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka in attack.

After the game, Arteta explained that it was a decision he made for the game, but after conceding inside four minutes, his plan was changed.

When asked about last week's dissection of his tactics, Arteta said: "Criticism is part of the job and normally comes when you lose. We all know that."

Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returned to the bench for the trip to Villarreal after recovering from malaria, making a late substitute appearance, and started against Newcastle on Saturday.

He scored one and assisted another during the 2-0 Premier League win and could be in line to feature on Thursday, with Arteta saying: "This game always gives you another opportunity. If you are there, then you are ready for the taking. He can turn things around really quickly so hopefully we can see that tomorrow."

Aubameyang also spoke to the media ahead of the second leg, and said: "I think I was really motivated in these types of games because a few times I have received some criticism of not being involved in big games, so I wanted to show people that it's not true.

Aubameyang is a killer. He was, he is and he will always be. He has been through a process of being out of the team because of the illness he has had but he is back. He is there to work, to defend the team and give everything for the team, hoping he can perform at the top level and if that happens he is going to be very difficult to stop. We expect to find the best Aubameyang possible, the same with Granit Xhaka, I think he is a great person, a really great footballer. He was the top scorer in the Premier League when I was there, he is really good physically and is a killer, like I said.

Unai Emery on Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

"This is why I am really excited to play this game tomorrow because it is a big game and it's a big moment for all of us. Hopefully we deliver again.

"For sure it will be one of [the biggest games of my Arsenal career]. Definitely this season is the most important game and we know that we have to win this game.

"It is a big opportunity to go through for us to get to the final, we play at home and this is maybe the biggest of my Arsenal career."

Another option for Arteta could be the return of Alexandre Lacazette, who has overcome a hamstring issue and may also be involved.

Team news

Both sides will be without suspended players Ceballos and Capoue after their respective red cards in the first leg.

Kieran Tierney could make his return from a knee injury for his first Arsenal appearance since April.

David Luiz made his first start since March against Newcastle, but early in the second half, picked up another injury that saw him replaced by Calum Chambers. However, Arteta did not provide an additional update on his fitness, and Arsenal will continue to assess the defender ahead of Thursday's game.