Arsenal travel to Portugal to taken on Sporting to continue their quest for European silverware in the Round of 16, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
It was a weekend to remember for the Gunners as they beat Bournemouth in the most dramatic fashion possible. That ensured that the club maintained its five-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.
Matt Turner will come in for Aaron Ramsdale and the American would look to continue his good form in the Europa League. As for the full backs, there could be one change with Takehiro Tomiyasu coming in for Ben White. Alex Zinchenko will once again be on the left.
As for the centre backs, there could be another change with a first start for Jakub Kiwior who will replace Gabriel. He will be partnered with William Saliba and fans will be excited to see what the new arrival is capable of.
In midfield, Jorginho will make a return to the starting XI to give Thomas Partey a rest. The Italian will be partnered with Granit Xhaka and the two seem to be forming a good partnership. They help cover the flaws of the other and that is essential to getting a good result.
Given the impact Reiss Nelson had last weekend, the youngster should be rewarded with a start on the left wing. On the right, the north Londoners will have the mercurial presence of Bukayo Saka. Fabio Vieira should get another start as the attacking midfielder looks to string things together.
Up front, Arteta has a tough decision to make given that Leandro Trossard and Eddie Nketiah are both unavailable. With Gabriel Jesus not completely match fit, we should see Gabriel Martinelli start as the striker. The Brazilian has played in this position before and his movement could cause Sporting a lot of problems.
Arsenal have a chance to get their hands on a major European trophy so Arteta will be looking to take this competition seriously. The Portuguese giants are a tough team to beat, especially at home. A win will make the return leg that much easier to handle.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Sporting(4-2-3-1):
Matt Turner, Takehiro Tomiyasu, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Alex Zinchenko, Jorginho, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Fabio Vieira, Reiss Nelson, Gabriel Martinelli
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