Ronald Mukiibi, a Ugandan based in Sweden is flourishing with Swedish outfit Ostersunds.
Arsenal and Mukiibi’s Ostersunds will face off after the Europa league draw conducted yesterday paired them together in the Round of 32.
Mukiibi has been vital in Ostersunds success in Europe this year, standing strong in the heart of their defence as they qualified past the Europa League group.
Against all odds, Ostersunds came second in Group E, level on points with Spain’s Athletic Bilbao with the later holding a superior head to head. (Ostersunds drew 2-2 in Sweden and lost 1-0 at San Names – Mukiibi playing 90 minutes in both games).
Did you know?
Mukiibi’s Ostersunds were formed a month after Arsène Wenger’s arrival in north London – The club was formed on 31 October 1996.
Mukiibi vows to confront Wenger
It should be noted that Mukiibi is a long-time Arsenal fan.
“I want to exchange a few words with Wenger and ask him why he sets his team up as he does. That would be fun,” Mukiibi told the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet.
“I want to talk with him about why he makes certain decisions. Maybe we can talk about my own future during the conversation? If I have a good match then…”
Asked if he was in favour of Wenger standing down after more than 20 years in the hotseat, he added: “No, he can stay. But I still need to talk to him about those starting line-ups.”
Arsenal – Ostersund first leg tie is scheduled on February 15th at Jamkraft Arena in Sweden before a return leg a week later on February 22nd at the Emirates in London, United Kingdom (England).
As quoted by Guardian, one of England’s most trusted Sports sources, Mukiibi confesses that a tie against a team he loves is dreams come true:
“I started laughing to myself. I sent messages to the guys while just yelling out. It’s sick,” he said.
“We will play the team I’ve followed for my whole life. Who could have predicted it? It’s a dream. It’s about hitting your targets as a football player. I had hoped to play for Arsenal at the Emirates, but now I can play against them in the same stadium. Life works in mysterious ways.”