UEFA Europa League 2017/18; Red Star Belgrade 0-1 Arsenal: 5 Talking Points
Red Star Belgrade 0-1 Arsenal
Goal: Olivier Giroud 85'
Amidst a crazy atmosphere, Arsenal had to toil hard to gain victory against a well-drilled Red Star Belgrade side. In their second away game in the Europa League, the Gunners had to wait until the 85th minute to guarantee all three points. And what a goal it was!
Olivier Giroud added another chapter in his stunning goals galore with an overhead finish to score the winner for Arsenal. Milan Rodic received a red card for Belgrade for two bookable offences which turned the tide in Arsenal's favour in the final quarter of the game. On that note, let's take a look at the five talking points from Arsenal's away trip to Serbia:
#5 Arsene Wenger rings in the changes
After an uninspiring, insipid display against Watford, Wenger made as many as nine changes to his starting eleven against Red Star Belgrade. Petr Cech and Mohammad Elneny were the only survivors from a 2-1 defeat against the Hornets.
As has been the case in the Europa League for Arsenal, youngsters have been given the chance to express themselves which has led to the likes of Reiss Nelson and Ainsley Maitland-Niles to shine.
Wenger has ensured that his side has a right mix of youth and experience which has led the side to three wins out of three and a safe passage to the knockout stages.
The Europa League games are giving Wenger the chance to rotate and test his academy strength and with victories following (despite a lacklustre performance), the Gunners can have a real go at this if the draw opens up for them in the latter stages.