The surprising player that Arteta will start in game against Sporting Lisbon

Arsenal fans are in for a surprise on Thursday as Emile Smith Rowe is set to start in the first leg of the UEFA Europa League round of 16 against Sporting Lisbon. The news was confirmed by Standard Sport, and it seems that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta might want to rest some of his key players for the Premier League.

Emile Smith Rowe has had a difficult season so far, having been plagued by injuries. He has only made seven Premier League appearances, but he made an impact in a 47 minute cameo against Bournemouth on Saturday. He contributed an assist in Arsenal’s 3-2 win over the Cherries, which may have caught Arteta’s attention.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 04: Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and AFC Bournemouth at Emirates Stadium on March 04, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal are currently leading the Premier League table with 63 points after 26 games, but they are closely followed by second-placed Manchester City with 58 points. With such a tight title race, Arteta might decide to give players like Emile Smith Rowe a chance to rest some of his other key players for the Premier League.

Emile Smith Rowe is a talented midfielder who has been with Arsenal since he was still a child. He has been touted as one of the brightest prospects in Arsenal’s academy and has already shown glimpses of his potential in his limited appearances this season and in the past.

Smith Rowe’s inclusion in Thursday’s game will be a great opportunity for him to showcase his skills on the European stage. It will also be a chance for him to prove himself to Arteta and stake his claim for more playing time in the future.

Arsenal fans will be excited to see what Smith Rowe can bring to the team on Thursday. His creativity and ability to unlock defences could prove crucial against Sporting Lisbon, who are known for their defensive solidity.

In conclusion, Emile Smith Rowe’s inclusion in Thursday’s game against Sporting Lisbon is an unexpected but exciting development for Arsenal fans. It will be interesting to see how he performs on the European stage and whether he can help Arsenal secure a positive result ahead of their crucial Premier League fixtures.