Athletic Club manager Ernesto Valverde has admitted that Arsenal hold an advantage ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash due to the presence of Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino.
The two midfielders, who previously played for Athletic’s fierce rivals Real Sociedad before moving to England, bring familiarity with Spanish football that Valverde believes could benefit the Gunners.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Valverde hailed Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta as “one of the best managers in the world,” while acknowledging the threat posed by the ex-La Liga duo.
“They already know us, so they may have an advantage in that sense, but hey, we know them too,” he said.
Arsenal reached the semi-finals of the competition last season, losing to eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain.
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