Arsenal Set to Welcome Back Saliba for Crucial Man City Clash as Saka Remains Sidelined
Arsenal look to demonstrate their Premier League championship ambitions as they welcome Manchester City to the Emirates Stadium this Sunday afternoon.
The Gunners faltered at Anfield during their opening significant test of the campaign, falling to defending champions Liverpool after Dominik Szoboszlai's spectacular free-kick strike. While their performance on Merseyside wasn't particularly poor, their shortage of creative attacking play ultimately proved decisive.
Mikel Arteta will be eager to see his team bounce back this weekend and continue their momentum from consecutive victories against Nottingham Forest and Athletic Club. Last season saw them triumph 5-1 in this matchup, though any positive result would be gratefully received by the Arsenal manager on this occasion.
Here's how he might set up his team at the Emirates.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Man City (4-3-3)
GK: David Raya—The sole goal Raya has allowed for Arsenal this campaign was Szoboszlai's spectacular effort at Anfield, with the Gunners' defensive unit maintaining their characteristic solidity. Raya has delivered when needed but enjoys the advantage of playing behind an outstanding defensive line.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Timber has delivered excellent consecutive displays in victories over Forest and Athletic, though he now confronts the challenging assignment of containing the rapid Jérémy Doku this weekend. The Belgian winger has shown excellent form this season.
CB: William Saliba—Cristhian Mosquera has been impeccable while covering for the injured Saliba, but the French defender will reclaim his position this weekend. Arteta now possesses remarkable defensive depth.
CB: Gabriel—Gabriel engaged in numerous battles with Erling Haaland during previous Arsenal-City encounters, and their latest meeting will likely produce similar intensity this Sunday. The Norwegian striker is also in excellent form, having netted 12 times already this season for club and country.
LB: Riccardo Calafiori—Myles Lewis-Skelly found the net in last season's fixture but has been moved to the substitutes' bench early this campaign. Calafiori has operated on the left side of a stubborn defensive unit and should maintain his starting role.
CM: Mikel Merino—Though Arteta hasn't completely dismissed Martin Ødegaard from Sunday's clash, Merino appears set to receive another midfield opportunity. The Spanish midfielder offers considerable work rate and scoring potential.
CM: Martín Zubimendi—Zubimendi claimed an unexpected double against Forest last weekend, delivering a magnificent volley and solid header to mark his Arsenal debut. His attention will shift more toward defensive responsibilities this weekend.
CM: Declan Rice—The dependable Rice will orchestrate Arsenal's midfield on Sunday, displaying his excellent set-piece technique and remarkable endurance. He might prove pivotal in the middle of the field.
RW: Noni Madueke—Similar to Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka remains questionable and probably won't participate against City. Arteta won't worry, however, as Madueke has impressed while deputizing for his teammate.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—Gyökeres has found the target in both of Arsenal's home matches this season but encounters tougher opposition than Leeds United and Forest on Sunday. The Swedish forward will be evaluated based on his big-game performances.
LW: Eberechi Eze—Eze hasn't looked completely settled on the left flank and now faces challenge from Gabriel Martinelli—the Brazilian both scored and provided an assist after coming off the bench in midweek.
