Arteta Drops Bombshell: Three Game-Changing Squad Calls Rock Arsenal Ahead of Man Utd Showdown
Arsenal kick off their Premier League season at Old Trafford facing Manchester United on Sunday, with manager Mikel Arteta making three significant choices in both attacking and defensive positions.
The Gunners announced their squad selection before the match as supporters speculated about which starting eleven the Spanish coach would field, considering the challenging nature of fixtures at the Theatre of Dreams. This is particularly relevant given Arsenal's struggles there last season in a 1-1 stalemate, where they fell behind before Declan Rice salvaged a draw. Additionally, questions remained about how Ruben Amorim would set up the Red Devils.
Ben White, Riccardo Calafiori and headline acquisition Viktor Gyökeres were included in the starting formation following extensive speculation and analysis. Jakub Kiwior's absence is noteworthy as his future remains uncertain with the transfer window approaching its conclusion. Christian Nørgaard's omission also comes as a surprise.
Arteta maintained most of his anticipated lineup: William Saliba and Gabriel forming the central defensive partnership, the predicted midfield trio of Martín Zubimendi, Martin Ødegaard and Rice, alongside Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka operating wide. White's inclusion could indicate concerns about Jurriën Timber's physical condition after appearing uneasy during their final preseason encounter against Athletic Bilbao.
Selecting Calafiori ahead of Myles Lewis-Skelly suggests prioritizing technical ability in attacking areas, though the latter offers greater defensive stability. The Italian has battled fitness issues, but his selection might reveal Arteta's tactical preferences for specific matches when both players are available.
Ultimately, Gyökeres receives his chance to make an immediate impact. The Swedish forward confronts his previous coach while making his Premier League bow in one of the season's most eagerly awaited clashes. Gyökeres showed improvement throughout preseason, netting his inaugural goal during the Emirates Cup. Many expected Kai Havertz to start given his familiarity with the system, his goal against Bilbao, and his apparent physical development over the summer.
While Havertz, Lewis-Skelly and Timber may feature as substitutes later, the overall evaluation demonstrates an enhanced bench that previously limited the Gunners in past seasons. Multiple alternatives exist to alter the match dynamics when required.
Arsenal Lineup vs. Manchester United (4-3-3)
Substitutes: Kepa Arrizabalaga, Jurriën Timber, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Cristhian Mosquera, Mikel Merino, Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz