Arsenal welcome Brentford to the Emirates on Saturday with a chance to get to the top of the Premier League, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
The Gunners have started the year in scintillating form as the goals are flowing and the defence has been solid. Despite this, it will not be an easy game against the Bees, who themselves are in a position where they are fighting relegation.
David Raya will be missing the game since he is on loan from the visitors and that will give Aaron Ramsdale a chance to play in goal. The Englishman has had very few chances to play this season and would want to make a good impression.
As for the full backs, it is going to be the pair of Ben White and Jakub Kiwior as Alex Zinchenko is not yet back from an injury. In the middle it will be William Saliba and Gabriel, and they will have their work cut out against the likes of Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbeumo.
Jorginho might be afforded some rest given that the second leg against Porto is looming large. That should see Declan Rice move back into a holding role and will also mean that Kai Havertz plays more withdrawn in midfield. These two will be complemented by Martin Odegaard who would look to set the tempo.
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli start on the wings and these two have the skills needed to get the better of Brentford. With their pace and ability on the ball, it will ensure that the wingbacks will have to stay back.
In the middle, Arteta has a couple of choices but Gabriel Jesus is likely to get the go-ahead. The Brazilian came off the bench last week and looked a bit rusty. Giving him more minutes will be helpful ahead of the Porto tie.
Arsenal will know that they cannot keep scoring five six goals every game but they need to get the job done. The visitors are known for making life difficult for teams so, there is no room for complacency. Arteta would want his players to get the job done and put pressure on the other two challengers.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Brentford (4-3-3):
Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Jakub Kiwior, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus
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