Arsenal start their Europa League campaign with a trip to Switzerland where they will face FC Zurich on Thursday, so let’s look at the predicted lineup.
The Gunners need to bounce back from their disappointing defeat at Old Trafford as they lost 3-1 to Manchester United. Getting a good result on this trip will ensure that the club’s return to European football starts on the right note.
Matt Turner could make his official debut for the north Londoners as Mikel Arteta looks to give Aaron Ramsdale a rest. There will be further changes as both Ben White and Alex Zinchenko are likely to be replaced by Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
As for the centre of defence, William Saliba should be given the night off and Rob Holding will come in place of him. Along with the Englishman, it is going to be the dependable presence of Brazilian defender Gabriel.
Granit Xhaka being the most senior midfielder in the squad will be given a day off as he needs to stay fit for the Premier League. Albert Sambi Lokonga will play as the defensive midfielder with two players ahead of him.
The other two central midfielders are likely to be Fabio Vieira and Martin Odegaard. The Portugal international played his first game against United and was impressive in a short cameo. Odegaard will look to use his creativity to unlock the home defence.
Another player that could get a rest is youngster Bukayo Saka who is finally getting to his best. This could see an opportunity open up for new arrival Marquinhos. The young Brazilian will be on the right wing and his countryman Gabriel Martinelli will be on the left flank. These two will have to ensure they make runs behind the defence to create problems.
Eddie Nketiah should get his first start of the season after impressing as a substitute in a number of games. The Englishman looks like a man on a mission and would be gunning to get his first goal of the season.
Arsenal must ensure that they do not take Zurich lightly as starting the campaign off with a win in the first game is important. Arteta will be confident that his players will be able to pull off the job and get back to England with the three points.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against FC Zurich (4-3-3):
Matt Turner, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Rob Holding, Gabriel, Kieran Tierney, Albert Sambi Lokonga, Fabio Vieira, Martin Odegaard, Marquinhos, Gabriel Martinelli, Eddie Nketiah
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