Arsenal’s Arteta Praises Benfica’s Taarabt Ahead of Europa League Clash

In the first leg, the two teams drew 1-1. The return match ended in a 3-2 victory for Arsenal over Benfica. Mikel Arteta had already faced Adel Taarabt when he played for Tottenham and Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League. "He played as a number ten, he is a player with a lot of talent, he is creative, he had good seasons in the Premier League, it is difficult to play against him, a player with huge talent and discipline and that is good to see him play again."

As for the Moroccan player, he recently announced that Benfica is giving him the opportunity to live new opportunities and prove what he is capable of. "I knew I had more to give. Benfica and the Europa League are an excellent opportunity to show it. The Europa League is another step for me to show people the player I am today. I go into every game ready to fight for Benfica. To those who question my ambition and my quality, I say: look at me," he had said.