Europa League final: Key players to watch out for
Arsenal and Chelsea face an intense battle in the Europa League 2018-19 final in Baku. The Gunners have never won the trophy. Meanwhile, Chelsea sealed the title in 2012-13. Both teams are familiar and know each other in and out. This game could be decided by the small moments. Here are the key players.
Eden Hazard had a productive Premier League campaign individually and he will be wanting to end the season on a high. This is the Belgian's maiden European final and he would be aiming to make it big. Hazard is also perhaps playing his last game for Chelsea. It would be a perfect farewell for the player, who has scored 108 goals in 351 matches.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been terrific this season for Arsenal. He won the Golden Boot in the Premier League to cap off a strong display. The former Borussia Dortmund player has amassed 31 goals in 50 matches for Arsenal this season. The understanding he shares with Alexandre Lacazette will help Arsenal. Aubameyang's eye for goals and perfect runs could unsettle the Chelsea defense.
This will be an important game for someone like Mesut Ozil to showcase his mettle. The World Cup winner has endured a disappointing 2018-19 campaign. But this could be his chance to produce a strong display as the creator. With no Aaron Ramsey and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Arsenal boss Unai Emery could use Ozil as the play-maker. One hopes that Ozil's services will gain substance.
David Luiz could determine the game in defense for Chelsea. His partnership with Andreas Christensen will be key in order to stop Arsenal forwards making in the runs. Luiz has defended well in the Europa League for the disciplined Chelsea. Although, stopping Auba and Lacazette will be a stern test for the Chelsea man. Luiz will need to bring all his experience into play.
