Arsenal will look to return to winning ways when they welcome Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday. The Gunners are coming on the back of a disappointing 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace in their last game. And a win could be imperative as they look to continue their recovery under Mikel Arteta.
Here is how the Gunners might line-up against the newly promoted Premier League side this weekend.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal Lineup Vs Sheffield United
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Despite a disappointing performance last weekend, the defence could remain unchanged with Arteta missing out on Calum Chambers with a long-term injury. At the same time, Rob Holding hasn’t played a lot of football this season.
Hence, both Sokratis and David Luiz could get the nod ahead of Shkodran Mustafi at the heart of the four-man Arsenal backline.
Hector Bellerin, meanwhile, is a doubt due to his hamstring problem. And Saturday’s clash against Sheffield United might come too soon for the Spaniard. Hence, we expect Ainsley Maitland-Niles to retain his place at right-back. Same can be said for Sead Kolasinac, who is the only reliable option at left-back, with Kieran Tierney out injured.
Bernd Leno is the obvious pick in goal. But, the German will be looking for a clean sheet following a rough patch in recent weeks.
Midfield
Arteta is expected to miss out on the services of Lucas Torreira this weekend. The Uruguayan international picked up an injury in the last game and was forced off. Matteo Guendouzi will likely deputise for him in central midfield.
The Frenchman could partner the ever-present figure of Granit Xhaka at the base of Arsenal’s 4-2-3-1. Their influence in the middle could be crucial in dealing with Sheffield United, who will have the numerical superiority should they persist with a 3-5-2.
Attack
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s absence will serve as a massive blow for the hosts this weekend. The club’s top scorer has been ruled out following his red card against Crystal Palace.
Gabriel Martinelli is tipped to replace Aubameyang at left-wing, though Reiss Nelson and Bukayo Saka are also pushing for a place in the starting lineup. Nicolas Pepe, meanwhile, is a guaranteed starter, on the opposite flank along with Mesut Ozil, who will retain his spot in the number ten role.
And finally, the Arsenal attack will be led by Alexandre Lacazette, who will be looking to extend his scoring tally, especially with Auba missing from the starting eleven.
