Arsenal are bracing for another pitch battle as they travel to face Atletico Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday night. The Gunners are well aware that the Spanish side has turned the Metropolitano Stadium into a fortress this season, and concerns have been raised over the state of the playing surface.
Previous Complaints from Rivals
Tottenham Hotspur complained after their last-16 tie in March that the pitch was watered too heavily, causing players to slip on the wet surface. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick also voiced concerns before their quarter-final, claiming the grass was left too long to slow down the game. These issues have put Arsenal on high alert as they prepare for a tough encounter against Diego Simeone's side.
UEFA Regulations and Potential Tactics
UEFA has strict rules regarding pitch conditions. Article 34 states that the home club must make every reasonable effort to ensure the pitch is in the best possible condition. The grass height must not exceed 30mm, and the entire surface must be cut to the same height. The pitch-watering schedule must be communicated at the organisational meeting, and as a general rule, watering must finish 60 minutes before kick-off. However, the home club may water the pitch between 10 and 5 minutes before kick-off or during half-time for a maximum of 5 minutes. This loophole could allow Atletico to create a slippery surface just before the match, something Arsenal will be monitoring closely.
Team News and Injury Updates
Arsenal are still awaiting the return of defender Jurrien Timber, who has been sidelined with a groin injury. The Dutch international has yet to step up his training levels, but there is hope he could be available for the run-in. Meanwhile, Eberechi Eze has insisted he expects to be fit after a scare against Newcastle, while Kai Havertz is likely to be out for a longer period, though it is not expected to be a serious lay-off.
The passionate 70,000-strong crowd at the Metropolitano will also be a factor, as Atletico look to use every advantage to overcome the odds against Arsenal.
