Arsenal travel to Old Trafford on Sunday for a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United, and Mikel Arteta is expected to make key selection decisions as the Gunners look to extend their winning run. After their dominant 7-1 win over PSV in the Champions League, Arteta may stick with some of the players who impressed in that game while also ensuring the right balance for this high-stakes encounter.
Defence: Timber to Start at Right-Back?
David Raya is expected to continue in goal as Arsenal’s number one, with the Spaniard looking to build on his recent solid performances. The backline could see a notable change, with Jurrien Timber potentially starting at right-back. The Dutchman has been recovering from a long-term injury but might get the nod for his defensive solidity and ability to push forward.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães have been Arteta’s go-to centre-back pairing, and they will be crucial in dealing with United’s attacking threats. At left-back, Myles Lewis-Skelly is a surprise inclusion in the predicted lineup, and it will be interesting to see if Arteta gives the young talent a start in such a big game.
Midfield: Partey, Rice, and Ødegaard to Dominate?
Arsenal’s midfield trio could consist of captain Martin Ødegaard, Thomas Partey, and Declan Rice. Partey’s experience and physicality will be essential in breaking up United’s attacks, while Rice’s ability to drive forward and protect the defence could be key. Ødegaard, as always, will be the creative force, dictating play and looking to unlock United’s defence with his vision.
Attack: Nwaneri, Merino, and Trossard to Lead the Charge?
With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli battling fitness concerns, Ethan Nwaneri could be handed another start on the right wing. The 17-year-old has shown glimpses of his talent and could be a surprise weapon against United’s defence.
Mikel Merino, who played a key role in Arsenal’s midfield against PSV, is predicted to start in a more advanced role. His versatility allows him to link play between midfield and attack, adding extra creativity to Arsenal’s forward movements.
Leandro Trossard is expected to start in the front three, either in a false nine role or on the left wing. The Belgian’s movement and goal-scoring ability make him a valuable asset in games like these, where Arsenal will need intelligent runs and clinical finishing.
Key Talking Points
Will Timber start? With Ben White’s recent injury struggles, Timber could be eased back into the starting XI.
How will Lewis-Skelly cope at left-back? The youngster has been impressive but will face a tough test against United’s wingers.
Will Nwaneri rise to the occasion? The teenager has been trusted by Arteta, and Sunday’s game will be another huge moment in his development.
A win at Old Trafford would see Arsenal set a new record by becoming the first team to win five consecutive Premier League games against Manchester United. If Arteta’s predicted lineup delivers, the Gunners could take another huge step in their title challenge.