Arteta Drops Bombshell Saka Call for Chelsea Clash—Arsenal's Injury Crisis Shapes Stunning Lineup
Arsenal are targeting their first domestic cup final appearance since 2020 this Tuesday evening, carrying a 3–2 advantage into the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Chelsea at home.
The Premier League table-toppers hold the upper hand in this tie, though Liam Rosenior's Chelsea side, thanks to Alejandro Garnacho's double at Stamford Bridge, still have a fighting chance, setting up what promises to be a thrilling showdown in north London.
The Emirates atmosphere that surrounded Arsenal's recent loss to Manchester United should be calmed following an impressive weekend display, yet Gunners fans are eager for the club to secure some silverware. Success in this tournament would provide significant momentum for both their title pursuit and European ambitions.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Team News
Team News
Arsenal face additional injury worries following the weekend, with many expecting that young talent Max Dowman would be the sole absentee from Saturday's squad selection.
Nevertheless, the Gunners were also missing Mikel Merino due to a possibly serious foot problem, while Bukayo Saka was unavailable after experiencing discomfort before kickoff. Arteta mentioned his key winger was simply managing a "minor issue," but he wasn't used at Elland Road and might not be fit to start Tuesday evening.
Noni Madueke remains available as backup, having provided two assists in the victory over Leeds United.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Leeds (4-3-3)
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Leeds (4-3-3)
GK: Kepa Arrizabalaga—While David Raya appears destined for another Premier League Golden Glove award, his deputy might claim glory in this tournament. Kepa featured in the opening leg at Stamford Bridge and should retain his place Tuesday evening.
RB: Ben White—Though Jurriën Timber was available to return to the starting eleven at the weekend, White's importance has grown recently.
CB: William Saliba—Saliba was momentarily questionable for Saturday's match but ultimately completed the full 90 minutes. João Pedro's excellent form suggests Chelsea will pose a greater attacking threat in the return fixture.
CB: Gabriel—Containing Gabriel's fellow Brazilian, Pedro, will be crucial for Arsenal's outstanding center-back partnership in the second leg. The usually prolific defender hasn't found the net in his last seven outings.
LB: Riccardo Calafiori—A switch at left-back is possible, with Calafiori, who has recently returned from injury, prepared for a starting role ahead of Piero Hincapié. Myles Lewis-Skelly remains an option, though the English defender has fallen in the pecking order.
CM: Martin Ødegaard—Arteta surprisingly chose not to select his captain on Saturday, and Arsenal's display will certainly prompt fans to question whether Ødegaard should be gradually phased out. However, that's unlikely to happen here, with the Norwegian midfielder expected to return.
CM: Martín Zubimendi—The Spanish midfielder broke the deadlock at Elland Road, kickstarting Arsenal's victory, and he also scored in the first leg. An excellent summer acquisition, Zubimendi is guaranteed a spot.
CM: Declan Rice—It's been a relatively subdued spell for Rice, who will again face off against Moisés Caicedo in midfield. Their initial encounter this season was interrupted when the Ecuadorian received a red card, and he was banned for the first leg.
RW: Noni Madueke—While Saka's injury appeared minor, there's no reason to risk his long-term availability on Tuesday evening. Madueke impressed against Leeds and will be especially motivated to perform well against his previous team.
ST: Gabriel Jesus—Jesus is competing for playing time up front, particularly with Kai Havertz back in contention. The forward has frequently impressed since recovering from a lengthy knee injury, and his well-executed goal at the weekend may have secured him a starting position for the second leg.
LW: Gabriel Martinelli—The Brazilian winger has yet to find the net in this season's Carabao Cup, but Arteta might restore Martinelli to the starting formation after Leandro Trossard was chosen on Saturday.