Unless the Arsenal and France international centre forward Olivier Giroud is dropped from the starting line-up by the France boss Didier Deschamps tonight, there will be three Arsenal stars on show as the French take on Switzerland in their final group game, with Laurent Koscielny and the new boy Granit Xhaka sure to start.
There is a lot riding on this game involving the three Gunners as well, because even though both teams are almost certain to go through to the next round, either one could still top the group and that could make all the difference as to how far each country progresses at Euro 2016.
France are in pole position with six points compared to Switzerland’s four and so a draw would see them finish top but that is a risky way to approach the game. Their two wins have not exactly been convincing either, both needing very late goals, and in the Swiss I think they could struggle to score once more.
So far the new Arsenal midfielder Xhaka has been very impressive and he will have a tough job on his hands against the likes of Payet, Pogba and all, but hopefully he can shine again and show the Arsenal fans that Arsene Wenger has signed a real star.
Which of the Arsenal players on show tonight do you think will impress the most? And which of them will be going through as group winners?
Xhaka and Kos already mixing it up…
Yeah 1 rock to another rock. Welcome buddy!
@JAmerican
Granit is solid as a “Rock”…
Dem soon “Set up roadblock.” Looking forward to him, Coquelin, and El Neny bussing them shut in the Arsenal midfield.
Like the previous World Cup the limitations of the Lampost becomes apparent and he gets replaced. Only to a stubborn fool its not apparent even after 15 GAMES!
Xhaka….good player…good passer of the ball and a vocal player. At such a young age, he is already a leader. Glad France and Switzerland qualify from their group. Congrats to them
Xhaka again one of the best players on the pitch. So mature, professional, and clever. Getting more and more excited with this signing by the week.
Swiss CBs have looked good throughout this tournament, maybe we should have a look at F Schar. Lichsteiner is awesome, if Rodriguez has his type of talent Id be sorry if we missed out.
Another CB we could take a look at is Koscielny’s partner in the France team, we were rumoured with him at one time also. Rami, he has a good understanding alongside the boss. Personally Id prefer Schar, I think Rami might be getting on a bit.
@Trevor
Wasn’t too impressed with Rami. Schar and Lichsteiner were really solid though. Upfront Embolo was very impressive. Only 19, bu it looks like Manu have already scooped him up. Big ups to Sissoko also. Dude can turn it on when he has to.
I just watched Xhaka this night and I don’t think he is a DM…
A DLP like Arteta but far better…
Therefore,I don’t think Cazorla will be his best partner…I will prefer Coq/Elneny beside him…
Imo,he is a little bit similar to Zorla…Zorla will rotate with Ozil and then Coq/Elneny and MAYBE Ramsey to partner Xhaka….great player!!!!
Xhaka could be the “Viera” type player we have needed for over a decade
I would be happy with these pairings~
Xhaka, Cazorla
Xhaka, Coquelin
Coquelin, Cazorla
I think the back of midfield is sorted (we also have Eleney, Ramsey, Wilshere)