#Montero and Van de Donk, moving reunion with their past in Arsenal

Lisbon - Olympique Lyonnais will face Arsenal this Saturday in a crucial match for qualifying in the Champions League. Beyond the sporting stakes, this game will be marked by moving reunions for Joe Montero and Danielle Van de Donk, two players who both evolved into the London team between 2017 and 2021.

For Danielle Van de Donk, this return to Arsenal is more than just a game. She will also cross the path of Renee Slegers, former teammate and now coach of the English team. “I can’t wait to see Renee,” says the Lyon midfielder. “She’s had a very good career. We met at the age of 16-18. The current always goes very well. I played with her, especially in the selection. I’ve known her for years. That’s my example.”

For his part, Joe Montero, OL coach, emphasized his in-depth knowledge of the opposing team. “Yes, it’s a team we know very well,” he said at a press conference on Friday. “We know how they play. They have a lot of talent, creativity, which allows them to win games. We know how they play, but we have to see how they play without the ball. That is where we will see what we can do. "

Renée Slegers’ Arsenal impressed this season in the Champions League, especially at home where he only scored 3 goals in 8 matches. The defensive strength of the London team, combined with its offensive creativity, is a major challenge for the teammates of Tabitha Chawinga. OL’s ability to destabilize the Arsenal without a balloon will be decisive for its qualification. This game promises to be a confrontation rich in emotions and tactics.