Unlike their opponents, Fenerbahce have been busy in the transfer market bringing in Emmanuel Emenike, Michal Kadlec and Bruno Alves. However, manager Ersun Yanal will be disappointed with his team’s 3-2 loss in their opening league fixture against Konyaspor having led the game 2-0. Behind the scenes The Super Lig club could yet be thrown out of the Champions League if they win their tie against Arsenal as they await a ruling from the Court of Arbitration for Sport regarding accusations from Uefa of match-fixing.
KICK-OFF: Wednesday, 7.45pm
The need for complete focus could hardly be more acute. With Champions League football generally worth around £25 million, Wenger agreed on Tuesday that this two-legged play-off was “the most important” game of Arsenal’s entire season.
“We fought very hard last season to be in the top four and the game has a vital importance,” the manager said. “To be part of the top level, for us, is the most important. All the rest are the consequences of it. It will be a very hot atmosphere as it always is in Turkey. You always have an opportunity to show your personality.”
The omens ahead of tonight are mixed. Arsenal are seeking to extend their participation in the group phase of the Champions League to 16 consecutive years and, in that time, they have previously come through five play-off matches at a combined aggregate score of 24-3.
It is arguable, though, whether they have previously faced such dangerous opponents amid such a backdrop of negativity back home. As well as the supporters’ anger over Arsenal’s inactivity in the transfer market, injuries and form are a major concern.
PAST MEETINGS
Arsenal 0 Fenerbahce 0, Champions League, November 2008
Fenerbahce 2 (Silvestre og, Guiza) Arsenal 5 (Adebayor, Walcott, Diaby, Song, Ramsey), Champions League, October 2008
STATS…
Arsenal have won all five of their Champions League qualifiers (2011, 2009, 2008 , 2007 and 2006) They have also won all ten legs in these five ties.
Fenerbahce have never beaten Arsenal having lost two and drawn two of their four matches. Their biggest loss coming the last time they played Arsenal at home, losing 5-2 in 2008.
Arsenal’s home loss to Aston Villa was their first opening day defeat in twenty years.
