In a strategic move, PSV manager Peter Bosz has opted to keep Luuk de Jong on the bench for their crucial Champions League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday night. The PSV captain has been a pivotal player for the team, especially over the last nine league encounters, but Bosz believes itโs wiser to preserve De Jong for the Eredivisie challenge ahead. Instead, heโs handed the striker role to Ivan Perisic for the second leg of the Round of 16, following a hefty 7-1 defeat to Arsenal in Eindhoven, which all but quashes their hopes of progressing in Europe.
With PSV trailing Ajax by a daunting eight points, the clubโs immediate focus shifts to their last nine matches in the Eredivisie, where they aim to claw back the deficit. Their objective is not only to close the gap but to secure a second-place finish to guarantee a spot in next yearโs Champions League group stage. Currently, they have a six-point cushion over third-placed FC Utrecht.
Itโs a tall order, but with the right strategy, the Eindhoven outfit aims to stay competitive on both domestic and European fronts.