Arsenal head to north of England to take on Manchester City in a game that has the potential to affect the title race, so let’s take a look at the predicted lineup.
The Gunners went into the international break on top of the Premier League as they sit ahead of Liverpool on goal difference. They will have one of their toughest challenges on Sunday as they face the reigning champions.
David Raya will start in goal, and will have his work cut out against one of the best teams in the country. Ben White and Alex Zinchenko should start as the full backs.
There is some doubt with regard to the fitness of Gabriel, but the club hopes that the Brazilian will be fit in time. Should he be available, the defender will be partnered with William Saliba, and they would look to get a clean sheet which looks quite unlikely.
Jorginho has been preferred to start in the last few games and that trend is likely to continue. His passing allows the team to be a bit more fluid. It also allows Declan Rice to move up field and help captain Martin Odegaard to press on the front foot.
There are further doubts over the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli. This should result in Arteta reshuffling the frontline. We could see a three of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard.
While this is not ideal for the north Londoners, this trio does have the talent needed to get the win. And if they can bring on Saka and Martinelli from the bench, it will add to their firepower. The main task would be to keep Kevin de Bruyne quiet as he is City’s most dangerous player.
Arsenal and Arteta will be keenly aware of how much rides on this one match. There are just 10 games till the end of the season. A win here would give the Gunners some much-needed momentum as they look to end their Premier League drought.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup against Manchester City: 4-3-3
David Raya, Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Alex Zinchenko, Jorginho, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard
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