The Gunners defeated AC Milan 1-0 away in the first leg. Wang Shuo's goal gave them the advantage. Going into the second leg, however, Wenger's team was plagued by injuries, leaving Arteta sidelined.
Goalkeeper: Szczeny;
Defense: Vermaelen, Verthongen, Subotic, and Lichsteiner;
Midfield: Alexandre Song dropping deep, with Matuidi and De Bruyne in the center;
Forwards: Hazard, Wang Shuo, and Walcott.
Pairing Matuidi with Arteta in the first leg had left the Gunners' midfield lacking vitality. With Arteta out for this match, Wenger opted to start De Bruyne, who possessed stronger Passing abilities and had performed well in the league recently. He highly valued the chemistry between the Belgium Midfielder and Wang Shuo.
AC Milan had also made adjustments on their end.
Goalkeeper: Abbiati;
Defense: Antonini, Nesta, Thiago Silva, and Alaba;
Midfield: Emmanuelson, Van Bommel, and Nocerino playing deep, with Robinho ahead of them;
Forwards: Ibrahimovic partnering with Shaarawy.
