Preview: The absence of Mathieu Flamini could be a key factor
When Arsenal announced the signing of former AC Milan midfielder Mathieu Flamini, the club's fans were not all that impressed. But the reality of it is that Flamini has been an unsung hero for the Gunners, taking on a role that had not been filled since his departure in 2008.
Having picked up a concussion against Norwich City on Saturday, Arsene Wenger has confirmed his absence in Tuesday's Champions League match.
"He is doing well," Wenger told Arsenal's official website. "He has practiced normally but we will not play him because there is a five-day rule that we will respect. We will not take any chances. It was a concussion and the doctor advised us not to play him. He will be ok for the weekend," the French manager added.
Flamini's willingness to give up the opportunity of going forward has helped other players in the squad flourish since his arrival. Not shying away from any tackle is also something that the Arsenal midfield has been missing.
Without the French midfielder on Tuesday, Arsene Wenger will likely opt to line-up with Aaron Ramsey and Mikel Arteta in front of the back four. Arteta will be the one to stick to the more defensive duties, bringing calmness to the Arsenal midfield, while also allowing Ramsey to get forward, as he has done so well this season.
The Welsh international is off to an explosive start, and Tuesday he will get another chance to impress, against last season's Champions League finalists.
Having already met Borussia Dortmund in years past, the North London side will know what to expect.
Jurgen Klopp's side did lose Mario Gotze in the off-season, but having signed Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the German side poses a serious threat on the counter-attack.
Domestically, Dormund is second in the Bundesliga, trailing Bayern Munich by one point. In Group F, they suffered an opening day defeat in Italy against Napoli, but bounced back with a victory at home against Marseille.
As for the hosts, they are off to their best start in recent years, topping the English Premier League table. On their European duties, they have won both matches, allowing them to sit top of the group with six points. A victory at home on Tuesday would put them in a very good spot to progress into the knockout stage.
One problem for the Gunners will be Polish international Robert Lewandowski. He already has eight goals scored between the Bundesliga and the UCL, forcing fellow Polish international Wojciech Szczesny to warn his teammates.
"Certainly Lewandowski is one of the best you can find in Europe so he will be dangerous, but we played against them before, and we've handled him quite well, so I hope we can do that again," Szczesny told the club's official website.
Given the amount of talent on display Tuesday night, both these sides are very much capable of putting on an incredible show. Two sides who can score often, will get the chance to show their offensive fire-power at the Emirates, in what many will consider to be the match of the day.
Arsenal's current form has been impressive, but this match could likely be one of the toughest they will have been up against all season. It will also be interesting to see how they do in the absence of Flamini.
Where to watch the match - live stream, start time, TV channels, live scores
Watch Arsenal vs Borussia Dortmund live on Tuesday, October 22, 2013:
In Canada at 14:45 ET on: Sportsnet World Online, Sportsnet World
In the UK at 19:45 BST on: ITV HD, ITV 1, BBC Radio 5 Live
In the USA at 14:45 ET on: SiriusXM FC, Fox Soccer Plus, Fox Soccer 2Go
Viewers in Africa can follow this match live on SuperSport Select. If you are outside these viewing areas, do not forget to check the Arsenal vs Borussia Dortmund match page for full TV listings in your area.
