Saka Gets New Role as Arsenal Face Wolves: Latest Injury Updates and Starting XI Revealed
The arrival of a faltering League One side provided exactly what Arsenal needed following their disappointing stalemate with Brentford, and focus now shifts to overcoming another underachieving team in Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Gunners' single point in west London allowed Manchester City to close the gap in the Premier League championship battle during the midweek fixtures, though the table-toppers have an opportunity to stretch their advantage to seven points on Wednesday evening.
City will naturally have their chance to reply, but accumulating points always appears advantageous in such a fiercely competitive campaign. Most anticipate Mikel Arteta's team to bounce back with a victory in the top division on Wednesday evening, despite Wolves showing gradual improvement under Rob Edwards.
Nevertheless, they remain at the foot of the standings and appear almost certain to be competing in the Championship next campaign.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Arsenal Team News: Is Martin Odegaard Still Injured?
Arsenal Team News: Is Martin Odegaard Still Injured?
William Saliba was an unexpected omission against Brentford due to sickness, though he made a full recovery for Sunday's FA Cup match and was named in Arteta's starting eleven.
Meanwhile, Kai Havertz encountered an injury problem last week and is expected to remain sidelined throughout February, while Mikel Merino faces an extended absence following foot surgery. The timeline for youngster Max Dowman's return also remains uncertain.
Riccardo Calafiori picked up an injury during Sunday's pre-match preparations and had to be removed from the starting lineup. The Italian defender is doubtful for Wednesday's encounter, with Ben White and Martin Ødegaard also nursing minor injuries.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Wolves (4-2-3-1)
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs. Wolves (4-2-3-1)
GK: David Raya—Following his weekend rest, Raya will reclaim his position between the posts and look to increase his division-leading tally of 13 shutouts.
RB: Jurriën Timber—Despite White's fitness concerns, Timber was always expected to feature on Wednesday evening regardless.
CB: William Saliba—After being unavailable against Brentford, Saliba proved his fitness by starting at the weekend and, barring any recurrence of his illness, should maintain his place in the defensive line.
CB: Gabriel—The Brazilian was among three crucial outfield players who were completely rested against Wigan, and some might suggest the defender is quite lucky to be available for this fixture, considering he narrowly escaped a second booking against Brentford.
LB: Piero Hincapié—With Calafiori's injury concerns, Hincapié, who provided the assist for Noni Madueke's goal last Thursday, is certain to start at Molineux.
DM: Martín Zubimendi—The Spanish midfielder has contributed several important goals this campaign and appears to be an excellent acquisition. Nevertheless, some question why Christian Nørgaard hasn't received more opportunities after the Danish player's impressive weekend display.
DM: Declan Rice—Rice will encounter a recognizable opponent in the West Midlands, as Angel Gomes received multiple England call-ups under Lee Carsley during 2024. Gomes moved to Wolves in January and will be partially responsible for limiting Rice's impact.
RW: Noni Madueke—While Saka's comeback should reduce playing time, Madueke has earned his continued place in the squad.
AM: Bukayo Saka—Admittedly, it was merely League One opposition in Wigan, but there's evidence suggesting Saka could add new dimensions to Arsenal's offensive play when positioned centrally. Why not experiment with this approach again in Premier League action?
LW: Leandro Trossard—Gabriel Martinelli's strong FA Cup form continued on Sunday, though the more consistent and dependable Trossard has no justification for losing his Premier League starting role.
ST: Viktor Gyökeres—Wolves will likely crowd Arsenal's central striker, with limited space expected for Gyökeres at Molineux. Nevertheless, given the visitors' anticipated territorial dominance, opportunities should arise for the Swedish forward to extend his scoring record.