Arsenal will look to extend their winning run to four games in all competitions when they play hosts to Olympiacos in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday. The Gunners are coming on the back of a 1-0 lead in the first-leg but are aware of the fact that they cannot afford to concede an away goal this time around.
So it won’t be surprising to see Mikel Arteta’s men taking a more cautious approach. Meanwhile, here is how Arsenal could line up against the Greeks this midweek.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal Lineup Vs Olympiacos
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Defence
Arteta faced another blow on the weekend when the returning Sead Kolasinac picked up a knock. He isn’t expected to feature this midweek, paving the way for Bukayo Saka to return to his left-back slot.
Meanwhile, Hector Bellerin could make way for the much more defensive Sokratis at right-back. His physical presence on the right flank could provide a lot of solidity in defence, though Ainsley Maitland-Niles is also an option should Arteta need one.
The central defensive pair of Shkodran Mustafi and David Luiz could remain unchanged, however, having performed well in recent weeks. The performances of these two individuals, therefore, will be key and might even shape Arsenal’s fate in this knockout fixture.
There is no one replacing Bernd Leno in goal. The German international is expected to become Arsenal’s first-one goalkeeper even in Cup games from now on.
Midfield
Arteta will be boosted by the return of Lucas Torreira this time around. The Uruguayan international missed the first leg due to an illness. He could, therefore, get the nod ahead of Dani Ceballos and Matteo Guendouzi in Arsenal’s midfield. His energy and commitment will be key as the Gunners look to keep hold of their slender lead.
The ever-present figure of Granit Xhaka should partner Torreira. The ex-Gladbach star is arguably the most crucial cog in the Arsenal squad, with his performance significantly improving under Arteta.
Elsewhere, Joe Willock could once again replace Mesut Ozil in the number ten slot. But, the young Englishman needs to be more consistent. So, we are going with Dani Ceballos as the main creative outlet in the attacking midfield position.
Attack
Arsenal will be aware of the fact that they must build on their lead if they are to seal this tie. And that’s where Alexandre Lacazette could come into the fray.
The Frenchman was rested in the last game but is once again expected to spearhead the Arsenal attack this midweek. He will be partnered by the wide-attacking duo of Gabriel Martinelli and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, though this time, Reiss Nelson is also an option.
