Arsenal take on Atletico Madrid in the Europa League semi-final first-leg at the Emirates on Thursday evening.

The Gunners will be looking to star playmaker Mesut Ozil for inspiration against the Spanish giants.

The playmaker of Turkish origin has a great track record against Atleti scoring four times and providing one assist in eight games.

Ozil has also created 22 chances against the La Liga outfit.

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Ozil vs. Atletico Madrid pic.twitter.com/SQ7u9oxRZ3

— Chris Wheatley (@ChrisWheatley_) April 26, 2018

Interestingly enough Ozil has never faced Atleti as an Arsenal player, in fact, the Gunners have never played against the visitors in a competitive fixture.

The 29-year-old found the target against Atletico three times in five league appearances for Real Madrid.

Ozil’s record against Atleti was his best return against any Spanish top-tier opponent.

The former Real man found the target once every 169 minutes against Atleti.

Winning the Europa League is the only way Arsenal will be able to book a place in the Champions League next season.

The Gunners have never won the Europa League in its current format.