Stephan praises stronger Gunners
Julien Stephan has warned his Rennes side that Europa League last-16 opponents Arsenal should not be seen as something of a soft touch in defence.
Les Rouges et Noirs saw off Spanish side Real Betis 6-4 on aggregate in the first knockout round of the competition, showing that they are well equipped in attacking areas.
They are of high quality and are increasingly solid and intense in terms of defence.
Julien Stephan
However, head coach Stephan expects a tougher time against a Gunners outfit who have conceded just two goals in their last four games in all competitions.
He told reporters at his pre-match press conference: "They are a tactically flexible team who can play 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3. We don't have a precise reading of what will happen.
"We will have to prepare for that, even if there are changes during the match.
"They have internationals in every position with the possibility to rotate players. They are of high quality and are increasingly solid and intense in terms of defence.
"You may be wrong to assume that there could be space behind them, it is becoming less and less possible. They are a very solid team."
Rennes go into the first leg of the tie at Roazhon Park well rested after their weekend Ligue 1 fixture was postponed to allow them more time to prepare for the clash with the Gunners.
Their last outing came a week ago when they defeated Orleans 2-0 in the Coupe de France.
Rennes can be backed at 14/5 to win the game on Thursday evening, with the draw priced at 5/2, while Arsenal are available at 15/2 to secure a 2-1 victory on the road.
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Julien Stephan has warned his Rennes side that Europa League last-16 opponents Arsenal should not be seen as something of a soft touch in defence.
Les Rouges et Noirs saw off Spanish side Real Betis 6-4 on aggregate in the first knockout round of the competition, showing that they are well equipped in attacking areas.
They are of high quality and are increasingly solid and intense in terms of defence.
Julien Stephan
However, head coach Stephan expects a tougher time against a Gunners outfit who have conceded just two goals in their last four games in all competitions.
He told reporters at his pre-match press conference: "They are a tactically flexible team who can play 4-2-3-1 or 3-4-3. We don't have a precise reading of what will happen.
"We will have to prepare for that, even if there are changes during the match.
"They have internationals in every position with the possibility to rotate players. They are of high quality and are increasingly solid and intense in terms of defence.
"You may be wrong to assume that there could be space behind them, it is becoming less and less possible. They are a very solid team."
Rennes go into the first leg of the tie at Roazhon Park well rested after their weekend Ligue 1 fixture was postponed to allow them more time to prepare for the clash with the Gunners.
Their last outing came a week ago when they defeated Orleans 2-0 in the Coupe de France.
Rennes can be backed at 14/5 to win the game on Thursday evening, with the draw priced at 5/2, while Arsenal are available at 15/2 to secure a 2-1 victory on the road.
View all Soccer betting
Source: bet365.com
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