14 May 2023 , 05:00
992
0
Arsenal are still firmly involved in the fight to lift the Premier League as the season reaches its climax.
The Gunners have three matches of the campaign to go and find themselves just a point behind reigning champions Manchester City. The first of their final trio of matches comes on Sunday against European contenders Brighton.
They have enjoyed a brilliant campaign thus far and still have a place in the Europa League on their agenda before the end of the campaign. Arsenal welcome Roberto De Zerbi’s side to the Emirates Stadium and will be desperate to keep their title hopes alive.
The first - and potentially easiest - decision that the Gunners will make is between the sticks. Aaron Ramsdale has started every league game for the North London side this season and that will not change this weekend.
The defence in front of the former Sheffield United stopper could look slightly different. Gabriel Magalhaes and Jakub Kiwior will occupy the central positions as William Saliba attempts to overcome his back problem.
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush
Elsewhere, Ben White will remain at right-back. The other flank in the meantime could see a change. Former Man City star Oleksandr Zinchenko is battling to play again this season after picking up a calf injury. He suffered the injury in the recent victory over Newcastle and is likely to be replaced by Kieran Tierney.
Kieran Tierney could replace Oleksandr Zinchenko against Brighton (Getty Images)What starting XI should Mikel Arteta name vs Brighton? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Moving into midfield and there should be a similar complexion to the recent success against Newcastle. Jorginho and Granit Xhaka did an excellent job in stifling the Magpies’ creativity and should do a similar job against Brighton.
Norwegian playmaker Martin Odegaard finds himself in some brilliant form ahead of this weekend’s showdown. He has scored five goals in as many Premier League games - including the opener against Newcastle. The Arsenal captain will most certainly start once more.
Moving into attack and Arteta looks to have some relatively easy choices again. Bukayo Saka has been one of the stars of the campaign and is the most likely to line-up on the right.
Brazilian wideman Gabriel Martinelli will also be stationed on the left and will be hoping to end his three-match goalless run.
His compatriot Gabriel Jesus will also be aiming to get back on the scoresheet after finding some positive form following his return from injury. He has scored five Premier League goals since returning to the starting line-up.
Arsenal predicted XI: Ramsdale; White, Kiwior, Gabriel, Tierney; Jorginho, Xhaka; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Jesus.