So, the theatre (or pantomime) is over. The draws have been
made, and the last 16 clubs in the Champions League have found out their fate. And
the two remaining English clubs certainly haven’t had it easy.
Chelsea and Arsenal have both landed Italian opposition. Judging
from what managers and media had to say on the subject before the draw, the
consensus seems to be that this is just about the worst possible outcome. Chelsea
will face Napoli, who qualified second in their group at the expense of
Manchester City. The Blues seem to have found some good form in recent weeks, but
question marks remain over their defence.
Napoli, meanwhile, have looked impressive in their maiden
Champions League campaign. They’ll be looking to exploit any defensive lapses
with their pacey attacking play, just as they found out group rivals and fellow
debutants Manchester City. The Italian club’s own defence has looked solid so
far, meaning Chelsea will need to find more creativity if they’re to break them
down. Chelsea’s greater Champions League experience may work to their
advantage, but it would be dangerous to rely on this to see them through what
will be a stern examination.
Lack of experience certainly won’t be a problem for Arsenal’s
opponents. AC Milan have long been a fixture in the later stages of the
competition, and the seven-time champions will be in no mood for an early exit
this time around. Their group form may not have been stellar, with away draws
against both BATE and Plzen. But a 2-2 away draw against Barcelona suggests
there’s plenty more to come from the Italian champions.
Arsenal qualified comfortably from Group F, going through as
group winners with a game to spare, and their domestic form has improved
dramatically after a terrible start. And with Robin van Persie scoring goals
for fun, they certainly present an attacking threat. But injuries have left
them short of full backs, and with van Persie’s injury record there has to be a
nagging doubt about where the goals will come from if he is struck down again.
The San Siro is a hugely intimidating place to play, so a clean sheet at home
will be vital for Arsenal’s chances. It’s certainly a tough ask for what is a
relatively inexperienced squad.
Plenty, then, for Messrs Villas-Boas and Wenger to ponder. Meanwhile,
for fans, there’s the promise of some great European clashes, and a chance for
English football to rebuild its reputation on the toughest stage of all.
