Arsenal are back at the Emirates this afternoon with a point to prove. The Premier League champions were beaten by Brighton just before the international break. Mikel Arteta has made no attempt to hide it. ‘We have pain in the tummy for what happened in Brighton,’ he admitted ahead of the game.
The visitors Leeds United are no pushovers. Farke’s side are currently fifth and one of only five sides yet to taste defeat this season.
History on Arsenal’s side
The record books would give the home fans something to cheer about. Leeds haven’t got the better of Arsenal since May 2003. Mark Viduka scored late at Highbury. During that time the Gunners had won 14 out of 16 times, including the last eight in a row.
Injury headaches after the break
There are several things Arteta will have to think about before the game. Firstly, William Saliba is still recovering from a back injury. Ezri Konsa may not play after suffering a slight injury while playing for England. Cristhian Mosquera, having returned from injury, is expected to play alongside Gabriel in defence.
Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Germany and must undergo a last-minute fitness test before the game. Declan Rice opted out of his place on the England squad due to fatigue but is likely to be fit for the match. Ben White has recovered from his groin injury while Jurrien Timber’s injury situation is being closely watched.
Gyokeres given a chance to shine
Although Viktor Gyokeres has hardly played any matches in his second season at the club, he might get a chance to lead the team if Havertz does not play. The Swede has scored four goals in four Nations League matches with the Swedish national team.
Meanwhile, Myles Lewis-Skelly is set to replace Bruno Guimaraes next to Rice in midfield. This is after the Brazilian performed poorly during the game against Brighton and went through a tiring journey with his team.
Left flank the big question
The wide positions provide the most selection headaches. Eberechi Eze looks like he is in contention on the left. Noni Madueke may get the nod, with his directness a potent threat against a high-pressing Leeds side. Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard are expected to complete the attacking line.
Predicted Arsenal XI
For his part, Arteta would presumably select a side that consists of David Raya between the sticks. The likes of Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Riccardo Calafiori should form the backbone of his defensive unit.
Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly could then combine well as his central midfielders. Players such as Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Noni Madueke could offer further options for the Gunners’ attacking side.
Regardless of which eleven Arteta goes for, he wants this game to cause an instant response. And, for his part, Leeds will certainly be trying to make it uncomfortable.
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