Mikel Arteta made clear where Arsenal’s priorities lie with the Gunners’ starting lineup for their Europa League last 16 first leg showdown in Portugal against Sporting.
The Spaniard named a much-changed side for the encounter with Ruben Amorim’s men, with one eye clearly on Sunday’s London derby against Fulham in the Premier League. With little more than 66 hours between the final whistle at the Jose Alvalade Stadium and kickoff at Craven Cottage - something which hasn't left Arteta particularly pleased - his balancing act makes clear that, priority No.1, is the Premier League title.
While first-choice goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was always set to be rested with USA international Matt Turner coming in between the sticks, there were question marks over how many changes would be made in the outfield position, as Arteta looks to juggle his squad to keep the side fighting for silverware on two fronts. The answer saw half of his outfield starters from the weekend’s thrilling 3-2 win over Bournemouth rotated out.
