UEFA Europa League: Big clubs in fray tonight
What's the story
The 2018-19 UEFA Europa League is all set to kick-off later tonight as several big European teams are in fray, this season. Premier League duo Arsenal and Chelsea start proceedings with Italian club AC Milan being in the mix, as well. Former Liverpool legend, Steve Gerrard, will be seeing his side Rangers taking the field in a tough battle tonight. Here are the updates.
Chelsea
Sarri's Chelsea start favorites in Greece
High-flying Chelsea open their Group L account against PAOK in Greece. Maurizio Sarri's side have won all five Premier League matches and enter the European campaign as one of the title favorites. Even though Chelsea have left out Eden Hazard, they are set to field a strong line-up. One can expect Cesc Fabregas get a starting berth along with veteran Gary Cahill.
Arsenal
Emery keen to see Arsenal shine
Unai Emery is known as an Europa League specialist. He had won the title thrice with former club Sevilla. The Gunners start their campaign against Ukrainian side Vorskla Poltava. The manager assured that Arsenal are taking this competition seriously and will give it all. Germany goal-keeper Bernd Leno could make his debut. Starts could also be handed to several other fringe first team players.
Europa League
Rangers up for tough Villarreal test
Gerrard's Rangers face a tough away test against Spanish club Villarreal. The Scottish club have some injury issues to deal with and Gerrard will be hoping that they can focus on what's in hand and give it all. Villarreal coach Javi Calleja expects a tough fight from a side that plays to its strengths and is quick. Villarreal are experienced campaigners in Europa League.
Milan
Milan to face little known Dudelange
AC Milan will be up against Dudelange in their opening fixture. Dudelange became the first team from Luxembourg to compete in the Europa. The match would be played in the 8,000-capacity Luxembourg's national stadium and is expected to be a sold out affair. All eyes will be on Milan's Gonzalo Higuain in terms of scoring crucial goals.
Twitter Post
Glimpses of 2017-18 season
⌛️ The wait is almost over!
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) September 20, 2018
🤩 Check out the best goals from last season's group stage 🤩#UEL pic.twitter.com/JxoMgzJIjL