Unai Emery might get sacked post Europa League loss
Arsenal succumbed to a 1-2 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt at home during the UEFA Europa League on Thursday, keeping their knockouts fate hanging in balance until the final gameweek. The defeat drew heavy criticisms for manager Unai Emery, who has been winless in the last seven games, as his future is doubtful at the Emirates Stadium. Here are further details of his position.
How did the match pan out?
Playing the fifth match of their Europa League group-stage campaign, the Gunners started off on a good note at home, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scoring the opener at the stroke of half-time. However, Frankfurt struck back in he second half, following a brace from Japan's Daichi Kamada, who scored in the 55th and 64th minute to keep their qualifying chances alive.
I'm thinking about the next match: Emery
"I'm thinking about the next match and how we can improve. My work and my job are firstly analyzing that match, how we are in the Europa League, in our feelings and how we are going to play on Sunday," said Emery following the defeat.
Why was Emery criticized on Thursday?
As far as criticisms regarding Emery, on Thursday, are concerned, experts were baffled by his team selections. Furthermore, what was even puzzling was while Arsenal were 1-2 down, and with 15 minutes left to play, Emery chose to bring in a substitute in the form of defensive midfielder Lucas Torreira. Meanwhile, forwards like Nicolas Pepe, Alexandre Lacazette and Reiss Nelson were on the bench.
Emery's position untenable, could be sacked before Sunday
Meanwhile, sources at Arsenal have told ESPN that Emery's position at the club has become untenable and he could be sacked even before Sunday's trip to Norwich City. The sources also said that the board of directors is currently discussing the future of Emery at the club and further discussions would be done throughout Friday before taking a final call.
Emery has had an average stint at Arsenal
While Emery might be struggling of late, he has had his second-best managerial stint at Arsenal. In 78 matches so far, he has won 43 and lost 19, with a win percentage of 55.1. Although he has failed to win a single title at the club, he allowed the club to finish as the runners-up in the Europa League last season.
Freddie Ljungberg to become interim coach upon Emery's ouster
In case Emery is sacked, Freddie Ljungberg would take up the role of being the interim coach for the club. As for his replacement, plenty of big names have been doing rounds. However, the name of Mauricio Pochettino is a strong favorite, as he is currently looking for a job, following his sacking by former club, Tottenham Hotspur.
