Arsenal have officially announced their starting XI for their highly anticipated Premier League clash against Everton, set to kick off in just a few minutes at the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta has opted for a strong lineup as the Gunners aim to solidify their top-three standing in the league. Here’s the breakdown of the lineup and what it means for Arsenal’s approach to the game.
Starting XI
Arsenal XI vs. Everton (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: David Raya
Defenders: Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Myles Lewis-Skelly
Midfielders: Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Ødegaard
Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz
Substitutes: Neto, Kieran Tierney, Jakub Kiwior, Thomas Partey, Jorginho, Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri, Amario Cozier-Duberry, Gabriel Jesus
Defensive Setup
Arteta has gone with a balanced backline that features Timber and Lewis-Skelly in the full-back positions, supported by the central defensive pairing of Saliba and Gabriel. Timber’s return to the starting XI adds versatility, while Lewis-Skelly’s inclusion at left-back continues to showcase Arteta’s trust in the young talent. Gabriel’s recovery from injury is a significant boost for Arsenal’s defense as they prepare to deal with Everton’s physical forwards.
Midfield Trio
The midfield combination of Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, and captain Martin Ødegaard provides the perfect balance of defensive solidity, creativity, and ball progression. Rice will likely sit deeper, shielding the backline and breaking up Everton’s counterattacks, while Ødegaard will be tasked with unlocking Everton’s defense with his incisive passing and intelligent movement. Merino adds an extra layer of control and box-to-box energy, complementing the midfield trio.
Attacking Setup
Arsenal’s front three includes the ever-reliable Bukayo Saka on the right, Gabriel Martinelli on the left, and Kai Havertz in a central role. Saka and Martinelli’s pace and trickery will be pivotal in stretching Everton’s defensive line, while Havertz will look to link up with the midfield and create space for his wingers. Arteta’s decision to start Havertz over Gabriel Jesus adds a tactical nuance, as Havertz offers aerial prowess and a different type of off-ball movement.
Bench Options
The Arsenal bench is packed with experience and youthful energy, offering Arteta multiple options to change the game if needed. Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard are attacking alternatives, while Thomas Partey and Jorginho provide midfield reinforcements. Defensively, Tierney and Kiwior can slot in as required.
Tactical Expectations
Arsenal will likely look to dominate possession and push Everton onto the back foot early on. With Lewis-Skelly and Timber providing width, Ødegaard and Merino will aim to exploit spaces in midfield and feed Saka and Martinelli in wide areas. Everton, known for their compact defensive shape under Sean Dyche, will try to frustrate Arsenal and hit on the counter.
This lineup showcases Arteta’s intent to control the game from the start, and with a mix of experience and youthful exuberance, Arsenal will be eager to secure all three points.