Former Arsenal defender Emmanuel Eboue has sent a clear message to manager Mikel Arteta ahead of the UEFA Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain, scheduled for Saturday, May 30. The Gunners are preparing for their second European final in two decades, having lost to Barcelona in the 2006 showpiece. Meanwhile, PSG are appearing in their second consecutive Champions League final after defeating Inter Milan 5-1 last year to claim their first title.
Eboue Warns Against Fielding Timber and Lewis-Skelly
Eboue, who played for Arsenal from 2004 to 2011, has cautioned Arteta against starting Jurrien Timber and Myles Lewis-Skelly in the final. According to UK Metro, the former Ivory Coast international explained that Timber has been struggling with a groin injury for several months and should not be risked. Eboue instead recommended Cristhian Mosquera as a replacement to contain PSG's attacking threat, particularly Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
Eboue stated: “Timber will want to play. As a player, your dream is to play the Champions League final. I think for him, he will want 100 per cent to start. But he has not played for a long time. He has to wait a little bit then we can see. The PSG team, they are so strong and so fast so I think it is better for Arteta to leave him on the bench. Mosquera is the best option. I have seen his games and he has done very well, he is very strong and he is very hard to get past. I think it is a better option for Arteta to let him start.”
Midfield and Lewis-Skelly Concerns
Eboue also suggested that Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, and Martin Odegaard should anchor the midfield, while Lewis-Skelly should be dropped to the bench. He explained: “Lewis-Skelly is too young to start the game against PSG. I know he is a very good player but for the Champions League final you need the players who have experience. With the PSG midfielders like Vitinha, Joao Neves, and Fabian Ruiz, they are so intelligent and quick. For Lewis-Skelly I think it is better for him to start on the bench and then we will see.”
Eboue’s Own UCL Final Experience
Eboue featured in the 2006 Champions League final against Barcelona, replacing the injured Lauren at right-back. He was tasked with marking Brazilian legend Ronaldinho during the match. Henrik Larsson played a decisive role for Barcelona as the Catalans came from behind to defeat Arsenal 2-1 and lift the trophy under manager Frank Rijkaard. Arsenal, managed by Arsène Wenger, took the lead early but could not hold on. Eboue made 214 appearances for the Gunners between 2004 and 2011, according to Sofascore.
Kanu Backs Arsenal to Beat PSG
Legit.ng earlier reported that Nwankwo Kanu has backed Arsenal to defeat PSG in the final, insisting the North London side now possess the mentality and belief required to conquer Europe. The Nigerian football icon shared his thoughts ahead of the highly anticipated showdown, with Arsenal hoping to complete a historic season under Arteta.
