The predicted XI vs. Tottenham with a defensive crisis at Gunners. Mikel Arteta’s biggest blow is confirmed. The loss of central defender Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian defender suffered a thigh injury during his international match with Brazil. That’s why he will be on the sidelines for “weeks”. This is a shot that Alan Shearer called “hard to take.” With Gabriel’s regular wingman William Saliba a given. The boss now has to decide who will fill in.
Injury updates and returning stars
There is a silver lining for captain Martin Odegaard. After a knee injury, the influential midfielder recently returned to full training and is likely to feature in the squad again, which would be a boost for the squad. However, there are a few other notable names in the squad who remain injured, including Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres.
Emphasis was also placed on the fitness of defender Riccardo Calafiori after the player withdrew from international duty with Italy with a hip problem. Arteta has confirmed that Calafiori will undergo a late fitness test ahead of the match.
Arsenal’s predicted XI
In goal, David Raya is the undisputed first choice. Arteta’s biggest selection headache lies in the backline. With Gabriel out, Piero Hincapié looks ready for the task of starting alongside Saliba at centre-back. If Calafiori is deemed fit, he should start at left back, with Jurriën Timber on the right.
In midfield, Odegaard’s return would put him back at center forward, with Declan Rice and new signing Eberechi Eze dropping deeper. Up front, Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka are expected to take the inside positions either side of central striker Mikel Merino, who replaces the injured Gyökeres.
Arsenal’s predicted xi (4-3-3): Raya; Wood, salib, hincapié, calafiori; Rice, Eze, Ø Degard; Saka, Merino, Trossard.
As stated on GoonerNews.com
#Predicted #Tottenham #Gunners #Defensive #Crisis