The Gunners legend backs Arsenal or Atletico Madrid to take the Europa League title, but both should be wary of drawing Celtic
The Frenchman believes Atleti and Arsenal’s Champions League experience sets them apart from the rest of the competition, but having faced Celtic before in Europe during his time at Villarreal, is well aware of the difficulties of facing the Scottish giants.
Pires’ Villarreal side were drawn against the Hoops in the 2008/09 Champions League group stage, and despite recording a 1-0 victory over the Celts in Spain, were overturned 2-0 at Celtic Park after goals from Shaun Maloney and Aiden McGeady.
The Arsenal invincible spoke of his love for the Glasgow club, and warned his former side about the notorious atmosphere which is conjured up during European nights at Parkhead, explaining how difficult it is to win under such circumstances.
“Atletico [Madrid] and Arsenal are the favourites, for me this is the final in Lyon,” Pires told The Sun.
“They both have a lot of experience, especially in the Champions League.
“They just need to avoid each other and Celtic if they want to face each other in the final. I love Celtic. It is not easy for any team, especially in Celtic Park. The atmosphere is amazing.
“When you are a player, inside, playing against Celtic, it is a great atmosphere. It is still very close to the pitch.
“That’s why it is very difficult to win in Celtic Park.”
Should Celtic make it through the tie on Thursday night, the club would surely relish the opportunity to test themselves against the best in either Arsenal or Atletico Madrid, however, as Pires suggested, both clubs will be hoping to avoid the Hoops, who have developed quite the reputation over the years due to their strong performances at home over formidable European opponents.
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