Arsenal’s anticipated line-up against Bournemouth features a significant adjustment following their match against Southampton, with six players facing injury issues.
As Arsenal prepares to face Bournemouth, the predicted lineup indicates a key alteration from the Southampton match, with six players under injury scrutiny.
As Arsenal prepares for their match at the Vitality Stadium this weekend, they are set to continue their pursuit of the title against a potentially challenging Bournemouth side.
With injuries affecting the squad and pressure mounting from rivals Manchester City and Liverpool, this encounter could present a formidable test for the Gunners.
Mikel Arteta has made considerable strides in transforming Arsenal, particularly in terms of their mentality, which will be vital as they aim to bolster their title ambitions against a determined Manchester City.
This weekend offers another chance to reinforce their standing.
The primary concern for Arteta revolves around the fitness of key player Bukayo Saka, who sustained an injury during England’s match against Greece.
Additionally, Thomas Partey has pulled out of Ghana’s fixtures against Sudan due to fitness issues.
Kai Havertz is also managing a knee problem, which may necessitate alterations to the starting eleven. Given the stakes, here is the line-up we expect Mikel Arteta to deploy.
Goalkeeper and Defenders
David Raya has been outstanding this season, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s leading goalkeepers.
His impressive performances have led the Gunners to consider the possibility of parting ways with Aaron Ramsdale.
Jurrien Timber has made a commendable return after a difficult previous season and is likely to retain his position alongside Riccardo Calafiori, who has shown great promise since his summer arrival.
The central defensive duo of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães has proven to be dependable, surpassing many expectations since they began playing together.
Midfield
The midfield presents a challenge, particularly with club captain Martin Ødegaard still out due to injury.
Nevertheless, Arsenal has effectively distributed the creative duties during his absence, with Kai Havertz positioning himself between the lines to collaborate with the fit-again Thomas Partey and the consistently reliable Declan Rice.
While there are some doubts regarding Havertz’s fitness, he is anticipated to be ready for the match, and Partey, who experienced illness during the international break, is prepared to make his return.
Forwards
Arsenal’s forward line serves as the primary attacking threat. Bukayo Saka is expected to be fit for the upcoming game, while Leandro Trossard has emerged as a pivotal player in the offensive setup.
Gabriel Martinelli continues to secure his place in the starting eleven, fending off competition from Raheem Sterling.
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Havertz, Partey, Rice; Saka, Trossard, Martinelli
Martin Ødegaard, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Ben White, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Kieran Tierney, Neto