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9 aerial duels, 3 tackles: Pablo Mari stars despite Arsenal disappointment
Arsenal were dumped out of the Europa League last night after a 0-0 draw with Villarreal in the second leg of their semi-final. In Pablo Mari, however, the Gunners saw a player who gave his all for the cause.
It’s perhaps telling of the bigger picture that the man who shone during a game Arsenal needed to win was a centre-back. The Spaniard proved the catalyst for the clean sheet, impressing throughout the tie.
The Gunners have plenty of problems to ponder. Mikel Arteta looks to be fighting a losing battle to save his job and a toothless approach in the two legs against Villarreal hasn’t helped.
Over the two legs, it was central defender Rob Holding who had the most shots on target and that simply won’t do. The Gunners now face the realistic prospect of not playing in Europe next season.
In Mari, a player is emerging who has the ability to become a first-team regular during 2021/22. He has struggled for domestic game time this season but last night will have taught Arteta a lot.
Statistically speaking
the 27-year-old won nine aerial duels. The 10 other Arsenal starters put together only won 12, showcasing a colossal presence in the air.
He also three clearances, three tackles and two interceptions on a largely disappointing night for the Gunners.
Competition for central defensive positions is fierce at the Emirates. David Luiz, Gabriel and Holding are all vying for places. William Saliba and Konstantinos Mavropanos will only enhance the competition next season.
Mari has only played 17 times in all competitions this season. The player will be hoping for more minutes between now and the end of the season as he continues to prove himself.
Last night’s showing typified the sort of player he is – and what he’s capable of. Luiz is out of contract in the summer and the form of Mari might just tempt Arsenal into sending the Brazilian on his way.