With two back to back draws against Brighton and Palace, Arsenal’s momentum has taken a blow. The Gunners rather displayed very poor performances in those two games with Alexandre Lacazette saving the blushes of the North London club against Palace with a 95th-minute equaliser. Not only the goal, but he was also rather their best player alongside Aubameyang after he came on. Their opposition, Aston Villa were handed a defeat by the Wolves last week, so they will also be looking for redemption against Arsenal.
Predicted 4-3-3 Arsenal Line Up Vs Aston Villa
Defence
Aaron Ramsdale had a worse game compared to his recent standards. The Englishman could have done a bit better in blocking the second Palace goal. However, he will keep his place as the custodian in goal against Aston Villa with the hope of a better display.
Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu will start as the fullbacks. Tierney looked rather lethargic against Palace and will have to pass the matchday fitness test to start. Considering that, Nuno Tavares might get some time on the pitch coming on as a sub.
Gabriel was rather responsible for Benteke’s goal against Arsenal and could have been a tad more aggressive. However, he is Arteta’s best centre-back and will continue with Ben White in the heart of the defence.
Midfield
Thomas Partey will start just ahead of the defence and try to protect them from the likes of Buendia and Ramsey. He will be partnered with Albert Sambi Lokonga. The Belgian gave the ball away too cheaply which resulted in the second Palace goal. He will be looking for a better performance against the Villans.
Martin Odegaard was reminiscent of Mesut Ozil on Monday but not for the right reasons. Arteta will look towards Emile Smith Rowe to play a rather central role for Arsenal on Friday.
Attack
Aubameyang was the Gunners’ best player on the pitch on Monday. The Gabonese striker will lead the team’s attack from the left side against Villa. The sole purpose of the captain’s accommodation towards the wing will be to let Lacazette play through the middle. The Frenchman found himself in the right positions and played intricate passes to allow a free-flowing attack after coming on. He was rewarded with the equalising goal late on. Lacazette will be hoping for more of the same against Aston Villa.
Bukayo Saka is likely to sit this one out from the bench considering the hefty blow he took from Palace midfielder McArthur. Nicolas Pepe will start on the right-hand side of the attack.
