Following their 1-0 win at home last week, Arsenal can secure top spot in Group A of the Europa League if they avoid defeat in Eindhoven tonight.
Finishing top would see the Gunners receive a bye straight to the last 16, meaning they can skip a play-off clash against a Champions League drop-out as a result. However, doing so is unlikely to be straightforward as PSV look for revenge in front of their supporters at the Philips Stadion.
They may not have had much luck in north London seven nights ago, but a number of warning signs mean Ruud van Nistelrooy’s men still pose a very strong threat. For Mikel Arteta, it was the perfect opportunity to monitor some potential transfer targets up close, although he will be hoping his side can keep them quiet for a second week in a row.
READ MORE: How to watch PSV vs Arsenal in the US as Mikel Arteta eyes major Europa League advantage
With so much at stake this season, the Spaniard and technical director Edu will know that the club’s chances of fulfilling its objectives can be boosted if further quality can be brought through the doors in January. So with all of that in mind, football.london picked out the five PSV players to keep an eye on - below is a reminder as to who they were.
Cody Gakpo
football.london understands Cody Gakpo is admired by senior figures at Arsenal after he enjoyed a standout 2021/22 campaign, scoring 21 goals and providing 15 assists in all competitions. The 23-year-old winger has also had an impressive start to the new season, already racking up 26 G/A.
It has previously been reported that Arsenal were once the favourites to secure the players' services, although recent interest from Southampton, Leeds United and Manchester United has perhaps seen the Gunners fall behind in the pecking order for now.
Speaking after the defeat to Arsenal last week, Gakpo said: “Yeah, it was a great atmosphere and a good team. We tried our best, but we failed to get a result. It was a little bit frustrating instead of a real joy to play here.”
Ibrahim Sangare
Having been linked with Arsenal throughout his time at Toulouse, Sangare eventually made the move to PSV in 2020. The Ivorian has since excelled and become one of the most talented defensive midfielders in Europe.
Breaking The Lines describes Sangare as a player who “has it all”, possessing strength, power, explosiveness, ball control and even a good long-range shot. Standing at 6ft 3ins tall, the 24-year-old offers a noticeable presence in front of the back line and could be viewed as a like-for-like replacement for Thomas Partey moving forward.
Although he didn’t have one of his best performances last week, Sangare looked tidy in possession and was a key link between PSV’s defence and attack.
Joey Veerman
An unknown to many, Joey Veerman is perhaps a name that has gone under the radar of late after PSV snapped up the midfielder for just £5million plus add-ons in January.
However, ten goals and 14 assists from all three of attacking, central and defensive midfield positions, as well as the left-wing last season, highlight a player with incredible versatility, talent and an eye for progressive play.
At 23, he would certainly fit the age profile for what Arsenal have been bringing in, as will his teammates mentioned above and below. There’s definitely potential there, but Veerman will be hoping to contribute more after failing to make an impact at the Emirates last week before he was eventually substituted off.
Noni Madueke
Previously on the books at Tottenham, it wouldn’t have been the dream return to north London for Noni Madueke. However, If Spurs weren't disappointed to see him leave back in 2018, then they certainly will be now.
Until last week, Madueke hadn’t played a single minute this season due to injury, but the 20-year-old was a constant threat after he was introduced in the 65th minute. Offering explosive pace, strength and impressive ball control while also pulling out the tricks every now and then, he has developed into one of the most exciting young talents.
Currently representing the England Under-21s, Madueke is a handful for any opposition defender and it wouldn’t be a surprise if we see more of him at senior international level in the years ahead. The winger, who mainly operates on the right flank, bagged 9 goals and provided 6 assists across 35 appearances last season despite several injury setbacks.
Xavi Simons
As an attacking midfielder, Xavi Simons may not be of as much interest to Arsenal compared to the other names on this list, but he still deserves a mention.
PSV secured quite the coup in the summer, beating off interest from a host of clubs to sign the former Paris Saint-Germain “wonderkid” on a free transfer, and it’s safe to say the move has worked out well so far.
The 19-year-old has taken to senior football in his home country by storm this season, scoring 10 goals and setting up another 4 in all competitions. Like Madueke, Simons looked lively against the Gunners last week, often making direct forward runs and causing problems with his quick feet.
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