Arsenal will be eyeing back-to-back Premier League wins when they host West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon.
The Gunners are two points behind league leaders Liverpool and can temporarily move to the top of the table with a win. Arne Slot’s side face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge later today.
Ahead of the game, manager Mikel Arteta should make at least five changes from the 2-0 win over Olympiacos in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Predicted Line-up:
David Raya has been ever-present for Arsenal in the Premier League, keeping three clean sheets. He will be eyeing his fourth shutout in the London derby.
In front of him, there will be two changes to the backline. Ben White had an average outing at right-back, and Arteta has an easy choice to replace him with Jurrien Timber.
Timber, who is valued at £48 million by Transfermarkt, was hailed as a ‘total player‘ by Arteta yesterday amid talks over a new long-term contract for the defender.
Myles Lewis-Skelly won 13 duels and six fouls against Olympiacos in midweek. Despite this, Riccardo Calafiori is expected to be reinstated at left-back over him.
Gabriel Magalhaes picked up a knock in midweek, but Arteta was optimistic about his availability. The Brazilian looks poised to partner William Saliba in central defence.
In midfield, Martin Zubimendi is guaranteed to continue in the number six position. There will be an expected change in the number eight role with Declan Rice replacing Mikel Merino.
Odegaard dazzled against Olympiacos in a free attacking role in midweek. He provided an assist for Bukayo Saka’s late goal, but should have scored and earned more assists as well.
The Norwegian is set to make his first league start since September 13.
Further forward, there should be a double change. Gabriel Martinelli scored for the second European game running, but he could drop to the bench alongside Leandro Trossard.
Saka should be reinstated on the right wing with Eberechi Eze operating from the opposite flank. Viktor Gyokeres has not scored since the 3-0 win over Forest last month.
The Swede will be keen to redeem himself against the Hammers. He has scored three goals at the Emirates and has the opportunity to increase his tally in the derby.
How Arsenal could line up vs West Ham
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
