After securing their place in the semi-final of the UEFA Europa League, Arsenal will shift their attention back to the Premier League as they lock horns with Fulham on Sunday. The Gunners are coming on the back of a 4-0 win over Slavia Praha in midweek and had also secured a comprehensive 3-0 victory in their last league game – making them the undisputed favourites heading into this encounter.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal Lineup Vs Fulham
Defence
Mikel Arteta might want to make some changes to his defensive setup as he continues his rotation policy in the league. Starting from right-back, Hector Bellerin should replace Calum Chambers, as offering more mobility on the wings could be crucial, especially in the absence of the injured Kieran Tierney.
The Scot is still nursing his knee injury, with Granit Xhaka filling in for him in midweek. This time around, Arteta might want to recall Cedric Soares at left-back – a more natural fit than the Swiss international, who actually did quite a brilliant job on Thursday.
David Luiz is still out injured, which means Arteta can only switch between Pablo Mari and Gabriel Magalhaes in one of the two centre-back positions, with Rob Holding almost a guaranteed starter for Arsenal.
Bernd Leno, meanwhile, is another player destined to retain his place in between the sticks. The German has kept a clean sheet in both of his last two encounters and will hope to extend on that record this weekend.
Midfield
Things get more interest in central midfield where Arteta could be tempted to give Thomas Partey a breather as the new signing has started all of Arsenal’s last four matches in all competitions.
The Ghanaian international, therefore, could potentially make way for Xhaka, who should shift back to a central midfield role – forming the double-pivot alongside Dani Ceballos.
Attack
Moving further forward, Martin Odegaard remains a doubt for the Gunners. It could pave the way for Emile Smith Rowe to once again operate in the number ten role as he looks to offer creativity going forward.
Things could get difficult elsewhere in attack, as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is another doubt after being diagnosed with Malaria during the international break. It could force Alexandre Lacazette to lead the line for the north London giants, with additional support from wide attackers in Willian and Gabriel Martinelli.
Bukayo Saka and Nicolas Pepe are available if needed, but they are likely to be given a breather. The same applies to Odegaard if he is match fit while Eddie Nketiah is a potential alternative for Lacazette.
