Arsenal and their title hopes hang by a thread as they visit the Etihad to take on Manchester City in a title defining match, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
At home to Southampton, it looked like the Gunners could get an easy win but that was not to be the case. They had to fight till the last minute and only ended up securing a point and that has given City the upper hand.
Aaron Ramsdale will be in goal and he is going to be a lot busier on Wednesday given the quality the hosts possess in attack. As for the full backs, it is unlikely that Arteta will try to experiment in any way. This will see Ben White on the right with Alex Zinchenko on the left.
The same can be said about the centre of defence due to the absence of William Saliba. The Frenchman’s injury has forced Rob Holding to start a lot of games and the Englishman will continue to do so. He will be playing along with Gabriel.
Thomas Partey and Granit Xhaka have an important job during the week as they have to keep the City midfield at bay. If they can achieve that to at least some degree, it gives the visitors a chance of winning.
Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli all sparkled against the Saints and a similar performance is required. If they can reach that level, there is no reason why City shouldn’t concede some goals. The hopes of the league leaders rest on the shoulders of these three.
Gabriel Jesus will be starting as the centre forward and the Brazilian needs to be at his clinical best. If he can take the chances that come his way, the title challengers can be confident of beating the juggernaut that is chasing them.
Arsenal and Arteta will be aware of the significance of this game. Despite the recent draws, the title is still mathematically in their hands. If they can somehow get a win at the Etihad, that will be such a big boost for the rest of the season.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup Against Manchester City (4-2-3-1):
Aaron Ramsdale, Ben White, Rob Holding, Gabriel, Alex Zinchenko, Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus
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