Arsenal played out a frustrating match against Atletico Madrid in Thursday’s Europa League semi-final clash, as they were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
The Liga side found themselves down to 10 men inside of ten minutes, but Arsene Wenger‘s men couldn’t take advantage at the Emirates Stadium.
Laurent Koscielny’s time is up
Laurent Koscielny has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent defenders in the last eight years, but the Frenchman’s performances this season have been far from impressive.
He was at fault against Manchester United in December’s 3-1 defeat at the Emirates and was punished for his poor position by Atleti’s Antoine Griezmann on Thursday.
Arsenal haven’t kept a clean sheet in the last five games Koscielny has played in which is a worrying stat for a player handed leadership duties.
Antoine Griezmann makes Arsenal pay
The Gunners were comfortably in control of the game after Alexandre Lacazette opened the scoring in second-half, but a slice of luck for Griezmann allowed him to score a crucial leveler.
Prior to the fellow Frenchman finding the net, he was assisted by a poor clearance from Koscielny and a slip from Shkodran Mustafi.
The goal could have dampened the spirits of the players, who gave their very best to almost secure a positive result.
Alexandre Lacazette impressing after injury return
Lacazette has looked more refreshed since his return from a knee injury and came into Thursday’s Europa League clash off the back of six goals in as many games.
He managed to score after the hour mark with brilliantly-crafted header but will be disappointed with his overall showing after missing a clear-cut opportunity early in the first-half.