Oriol Romeu: VCF are 'stronger mentally' than Arsenal ahead of Europa League semifinal

The last time Valencia CF reached the semifinal stage of the UEFA Europa League, in 2013/14, Oriol Romeu was part of the squad. The Catalan is now plying his trade in the Premier League with Southampton, and has already played -and beaten- Arsenal this season with the Saints.

Romeu spoke to VCF MEDIA this week to analyse his former side's chances against the Gunners.

"I see it being an evenly matched tie. Valencia CF might be coming into the first game in their best moment of the season, and Arsenal have conceded 9 goals in their last 3 games -which is a big problem. Arsenal's defence started the season solid, but have been conceding more goals for the last few weeks," said Romeu.

"Valencia CF have to watch out for the speed Arsenal have in attack. There were doubts about Lacazette at the start of the season, but he is a very intelligent player and knows how to link up well with his teammates. Besides scoring goals, he also gives assists.

"Aubameyang is very fast and dangerous in space. Lucas Torreira started the campaign well and Xhaka is a proven player in the midfield. They are very strong in the middle of the park and in attack. In defence they have some very good players, but they need to finetune some things. Unai Emery is a very good coach, and he knows how to prepare for the tie in the best way possible," assessed the player who has several years of Premier League experience under his belt.

"They struggle away from home, which is sort of the key. We'll see if they can match the demands Valencia CF will provide them with. VCF are competing a step above Arsenal at the moment, and having this spark is key."

"I think that Valencia CF are a little stronger mentally. I hope we can have them reach the Europa League final and win a trophy this season -or two."