Mikel Arteta’s job will be under the microscope as Arsenal take on West Bromwich Albion on Sunday. It has been a miserable season for the Gunners, especially after their elimination from the UEFA Europa League that might lead to their absence in Europe altogether next season. Arteta, though, could still save his job with a positive finish to the league campaign, even though the top six hopes are unrealistic at the moment.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs West Bromwich Albion
Defence
Arteta might want to make some noticeable changes from the side that faced Villarreal in midweek. In the defensive unit, he is likely to recall Calum Chambers at right-back, ahead of Hector Bellerin and Cedric Soares.
The same cannot be said for Kieran Tierney, though, whose return to the pitch was one of the few positives for Arsenal in midweek. The Scot remains favourite to retain his place at left-back, largely because Arteta is devoid of any reliable alternatives.
There could be changes in central defence, though. Pablo Mari, for one, should make way for Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of the four-man backline, while Rob Holding remains likely to start, due to the injury of David Luiz.
Arteta might also fancy a change in goal as well, with Mat Ryan once again replacing Bernd Leno in between the sticks. It appears the Australian may have more future at Emirates than his German teammate.
Midfield
Granit Xhaka was a last-minute scratch from Arsenal’s starting eleven against Villarreal. The Swiss international picked up a training injury and remains a doubt against West Bromwich Albion.
As such, Mikel Arteta may have to persist with Thomas Partey and Dani Ceballos in the double-pivot. There is one alternative in the shape of Mohamed Elneny, but with Ceballos not starting against Villarreal, the Spaniard remains the favourite.
Attack
Moving forward, Bukayo Saka is likely to retain his place in the right-wing slot, but there could be a change on the opposite end of the park, with Gabriel Martinelli replacing Nicolas Pepe.
Arteta could also face a dilemma in the number ten role where Martin Odegaard hasn’t done much at all since returning from injury. We do, however, expect the Norweigian to retain his place in the side, ahead of Emile Smith Rowe.
And finally, the Arsenal attack should be spearheaded by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang as he hopes to return to scoring ways after a frustrating game against Villarreal.
