By Arsenal are gearing up for a crucial Premier League showdown against Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with Mikel Arteta facing several important selection dilemmas in attack.
One of the biggest boosts for Arteta is the return of Gabriel Martinelli, who could make his first start for the Gunners in over a month. The Brazilian winger has made substitute appearances in Arsenal’s last two games after recovering from a hamstring injury, and he is now pushing for a spot in the starting XI.
Forward Line Dilemmas for Arteta
With Arsenal aiming to cut the gap to league leaders Liverpool to 13 points, Arteta must carefully select his attacking lineup. Raheem Sterling is ineligible to play against his parent club Chelsea, leaving an opportunity for young Ethan Nwaneri, who was rested for Wednesday’s 2-2 Champions League draw with PSV, to start on the right flank.
Leandro Trossard could be deployed as a false nine, potentially replacing Mikel Merino in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a hamstring tear sustained in December. The England international is making positive progress and is expected to return after the international break when Arsenal host Fulham next month.
“He’s getting closer, he’s stepping up and making very good progress, I would say,” Arteta stated. “Let’s see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.”
Defensive Considerations
In defense, Ben White started against PSV but is still regaining full match fitness after undergoing knee surgery in November. This could see Jurrien Timber get the nod at right-back as Arsenal look to secure a vital victory at home.
Arsenal Predicted XI (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Raya
Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly
Midfielders: Odegaard, Partey, Rice
Forwards: Nwaneri, Trossard, Martinelli
With the title race heating up and key players returning to fitness, Arsenal will be eager to make a strong statement against Chelsea in front of their home crowd.
