Chelsea defender, David Luiz ahead of Wednesday’s Europa League finals has spoken about the prospects of the game.
The Brazilian who once played under Unai Emery at PSG identifies Unai as a spirited manager and sees the game to be a difficult one.
Speaking to the Guardian ahead of the finals in Baku, Azerbaijan he spoke about the last time he played in such a game and how different it will be this time around.
“It was a difficult final,” the defender said.
“Not just on the pitch, but also emotionally. In the end we won so I was happy, though at the same time I was a bit sad because I had good friends at Benfica. But in football there can only be one winner.
“This is a totally different occasion. It’s a big derby, a big London derby, big opponents, a high level rivalry.”
Luiz however was full of praises for his former manager whom he played under in Paris.
“I think Arsenal are doing great,” he said.
“It is never easy to change, especially after the many years the ‘Mister’, Arsene Wenger, was there. Then Unai [Emery] came to try and build a new philosophy and to try to gain the trust of the players, from the fans, from the club. I think he has been doing an amazing job.”
“I had the opportunity to work with Unai for a few months, he’s a great guy, a great coach, a great person. He is passionate. He loves his work. He likes to build teams who are spirited, play with passion and you can see that. He has had the opportunity to work with a lot of young players and I think they have understood his philosophy.”
“In this competition especially he knows how to win. That’s why Arsenal are there, that’s why Unai is there. Again! That’s another thing we have to understand. We have to beat Unai as well as Arsenal in the final.”
Arsenal will be relishing the chance to get hold of their first major European silverware in Baku following Unai Emery’s rich history in winning the tournament with Sevilla.
