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Arsenal kick off their Champions League campaign on Italian soil this Wednesday, facing Napoli in what promises to be a tricky league-phase opener.
Having progressed to the quarterfinal, then the semifinal, and most recently the final itself, the Gunners are hungry to claim their first-ever Champions League crown. Few would dare bet against them fulfilling that dream, particularly given their impressive start to the Premier League season.
The squad that finished as runners-up to Paris Saint-Germain last campaign has been further strengthened over the summer, and Mikel Arteta is expected to rotate his options in Naples. The Spanish manager can afford several changes without any noticeable dip in quality.
Here's how Arsenal could line up for their European return.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Napoli
GK: David Raya—The Spanish shot-stopper added yet another breathtaking save to his growing collection during the weekend's 2–1 victory over Chelsea, producing a superb fingertip stop to deny Estêvão a late leveler.
RB: Ben White—Jurriën Timber has rejoined full team training with the Premier League champions, but he will almost certainly be reintroduced gradually given he has featured just once since March. White is expected to start once more against Napoli.
CB: Ezri Konsa—Konsa made a strong impression on his first Arsenal start at the weekend, highlighted by a crowd-pleasing sliding tackle that denied his former Aston Villa teammate Morgan Rogers.
CB: Gabriel—Gabriel's performances have not wavered despite the absence of his regular defensive partner, William Saliba, through injury. The Brazilian has been commanding as ever, contributing to three clean sheets this season, including the Community Shield.
LB: Piero Hincapié—One potential change to Arteta's solid defensive unit could see Hincapié come in for Riccardo Calafiori at left back. The Ecuador international is a comparable option in terms of quality.
CM: Martín Zubimendi—The impressive emergence of Myles Lewis-Skelly and the signing of Bruno Guimarães has seen Zubimendi slip down the depth chart, but the Spaniard's defensive attributes should not be overlooked.
CM: Bruno Guimarães—Guimarães could be in line for his first competitive start against Napoli after overcoming an early injury setback at Arsenal. The midfielder brings considerable European pedigree from his time at Newcastle United.
RW: Bukayo Saka—Arteta may be tempted to hand Noni Madueke a chance and give Saka a breather, but he must be cautious about making too many changes against Massimiliano Allegri's side.
AM: Martin Ødegaard—Arsenal's skipper has been in irresistible form this season and chipped in with another goal in the win over Chelsea. Ødegaard's creative vision will be crucial in breaking down a compact defensive setup.
LW: Eberechi Eze—Left wing is one area where Arsenal's options are somewhat limited. With Christos Tzolis potentially rested, Eze—naturally a No. 10—appears to be the only viable alternative.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—The Swedish striker has managed just 12 minutes of action this season due to Kai Havertz's outstanding form, heaping pressure on him to take full advantage of any chances he receives. A goal on Italian soil would be a welcome boost.