Linked with Arsenal, Banega starred for Argentina as they scraped into the last 16.
Ever Banega was given his first start of the 2018 World Cup on Tuesday evening, playing an integral part in Jorge Sampaoli’s side as Argentina edged into the last 16 – and Arsenal and Tottenham fans reacted to his performance.
The 29-year-old started alongside Javier Mascherano in central midfield against Nigeria, with only a win enough to take one of the tournament’s favourites into the last 16 of the competition.
Sevilla midfielder Banega created a perfect start, placing an inch-perfect 40-yard, defence-splitting pass into the path of Lionel Messi, who made no mistake from 10 yards. But it was hardly plain-sailing from there.
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Chelsea’s Victor Moses equalised from the penalty spot, leaving Argentina fans in despair. But Manchester United rock Marcos Rojo was the surprise match winner as he tucked home a cross in the 87th minute to Nigeria crashing out.
The Sun reported earlier this month that Unai Emery is keeping an eye on Banega, after working with the midfield maestro at Sevilla before Emery took over at Paris Saint-Germain.
Gunners fans reacted aplenty on Twitter, urging Emery and Arsenal’s board to complete a move to sign the former Valencia, Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid star. But Spurs fans were also very impressed.
Arsenal fans reacted on Twitter, with one fan posting: “The League is ours”, if Emery signs Banega.
But Tottenham fans reacted to the playmaker’s performance too, with one fan posting: “Spurs need to buy Banega.”
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