Arsenal vs Atletico Madrid: 3 Factors That Could Decide the Europa League Tie

#1 The Arsene Wenger effect

Wenger with his captain Laurent Koscielny

Two weeks ago, following the crushing defeat at St. James Park against Newcastle, even the most vociferous Gunner would have conceded any hopes of beating the Spanish giants.

With Arsene Wenger's departure now imminent, even the most skeptical Gunner will be forced to reconsider his position, as far as the outcome of the semi-final is concerned.

If the Arsenal side needed any more incentive to do a job against Atletico, apart from the solace of silverware in one of the most disappointing campaigns under Wenger, a need to do right by him should rekindle the spark in his set of players.

A spark that might threaten to burn down Atletico's challenge for the Europa League.

Signing-off with the Europa League isn't exactly the kind of farewell anyone associated with Arsenal had envisaged for Wenger but the prospect of leaving empty handed is far grimmer.

Therefore, we think that this might play a major role in the outcome of not just the first leg in London but also the whole tie, with each Arsenal performance from here-on-in a tribute to the Le Professeur.