Arsenal host Nottingham Forest in Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners started the campaign with back-to-back victories before a disappointing loss to Liverpool at Anfield prior to the international break.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be aiming to return to winning ways this weekend, and let’s have a look at how they could line up against the Tricky Trees.
Formation: 4-3-3
Predicted Line-up:
David Raya has been an undisputed starter in goal for the Gunners. He will be eyeing his third clean sheet of the campaign against Ange Postecoglou’s side.
In front of him, there will be an enforced change in the backline with William Saliba ruled out for the next few weeks after suffering an ankle injury at Anfield.
Cristhian Mosquera was brilliant after his early introduction against the Reds. The Spaniard was hailed as ‘really good’ by the manager after a solid defensive showing.
The summer signing should partner Gabriel Magalhaes in the heart of the defence. Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori are expected to start in the full-back positions.
In midfield, there should be a change with Martin Odegaard back to full fitness after a shoulder issue.
Mikel Merino had a tough outing at Anfield before the international break, but he was brilliant for Spain recently, scoring his maiden hat-trick in the 6-0 rout of Turkey.
Despite this, Odegaard should be reinstated alongside Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice. The Norwegian bagged two assists and a goal in the 11-1 rout of Moldova.
Further forward, Noni Madueke should continue on the right wing in Bukayo Saka’s injury absence.
Madueke was Arsenal’s best attacking player against the Reds with three attempts on goal. He should keep his place on the back of scoring his maiden England goal.
We expect a change on the opposite flank. Gabriel Martinelli had a difficult outing at Anfield. He did not win a single dribble and managed just six passes in 70 minutes.
Eberechi Eze had a lively cameo off the bench replacing him. The summer signing completed nine passes, won 100 percent of his take-ons and had one good scoring chance.
In our view, he should get the nod over Martinelli on the left flank. Viktor Gyokeres looks poised to lead the line, having scored two goals from their first three games for the club.
Stats from Sofascore.com