Lauren backs Arsenal to seize defining week against Atlético and win the title race

“Eberechi Eze has been an absolutely fantastic signing and he’s been playing very well. When he came into the team against Atlético Madrid, he did very well.

“I believe those players have arrived at the best moment possible. We have a big chance to win tonight and achieve our goal by the end of the season.”

Having played in Spain, where he now lives and works as a respected pundit as well as being a FIFA technical expert, Lauren expects a demanding tactical test.

“Atlético Madrid is going to be a very tough game. They are dangerous away from home because they play on the counter attack and can sit in a low block if necessary,” he said.

“It is very important to control the emotional factor but also, when we win the ball high up, the first pass has to be direct, looking for the player attacking the space.

“They will close the space and it will be difficult, so when we win the ball high we have to move it quickly to create chances.”

Lauren, speaking with Hayters TV via Gambling.com where you can explore top UK online casinos  also highlighted a potential weakness.

“They are a very good team but they have been conceding a lot of goals,” he said. “In the last seven games they have conceded 12, many from set pieces.

“If we do what we normally do in an intelligent way, we have a big chance to win the game.”

Victory would move Arsenal closer to a first European Cup, something Lauren believes would carry huge significance.

“It means a lot,” he said. “We have been waiting for such a long time. I believe the team is in the right moment to win tonight and then play the final.”

Respect for Mikel Arteta’s side extends beyond England, he added.

“In Spain there is big respect,” he said. “People talk very well about Arsenal and about Arteta because this season Arsenal have been the best team.

“The pathway has been brilliant.”

That belief extends to the domestic title race, even after Manchester City dropped points.

“I know that we are going to win this league,” Lauren said.

“It’s not because of yesterday. I said it one month ago. The pathway has been brilliant. The boys have to believe.”

With a Champions League semi-final to be decided and the Premier League title within reach, Lauren sees no reason why Arsenal cannot complete a defining season.

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