Arsenal welcome Manchester City for today’s much-anticipated Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners are nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool, who picked up a 2-0 win at Bournemouth on Saturday.
Mikel Arteta’s side must respond with a victory to keep their slim chances of winning the league alive.
There will likely be six changes from the 2-1 Champions League triumph over Girona in midweek.
Formation: 4-3-3
Predicted Line-up:
David Raya was not in the matchday squad against Girona due to a muscle injury, and the manager said he would be assessed. He should return in goal ahead of Neto.
Jurrien Timber and William Saliba are expected to be reinstated in the backline. Saliba is poised to partner Gabriel Magalhaes in the heart of the defence with Timber at right-back.
Myles Lewis-Skelly is available to play after his red card against Wolverhampton Wanderers was rescinded on appeal. However, Riccardo Calafiori could start at left-back due to his better aerial presence.
Thomas Partey played as a makeshift right-back in the first half at Girona before being substituted. He should start in his preferred number-six role today, with Jorginho dropping to the bench.
Declan Rice should replace Mikel Merino in midfield. The Englishman is set to partner captain Martin Odegaard, who needs to step up. He has been far from his best in recent games.
Ethan Nwaneri could start on the right wing ahead of Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard. The 17-year-old scored a sensational goal from the edge of the box at Girona.
Martinelli is better suited on the left wing as his pace could pose concerns for Matheus Nunes, who has been playing as a makeshift right-back. Kai Havertz is poised to lead the attack.
The German has been guilty of missing clear-cut chances in recent games but remains the club’s best option as a central striker with his good aerial presence and link-up play.
Raheem Sterling and Leandro Trossard will drop to the bench from midweek.
How Arsenal could line up vs Man City
Arsenal v Man City Tickets
Arsenal’s home game against Man City is arguably one of the biggest games of the season as a Category A fixture, with tickets at a premium.
Gunners fans looking to attend the home game against Man City or subsequent home matches against West Ham United and Chelsea can purchase Arsenal hospitality tickets and ensure a premium experience at the Emirates Stadium.
