Boosted by the contract extension of star player Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Arsenal are hoping to continue their winning momentum in the Premier League when they host West Ham United on Saturday. The Gunners are coming on the back of an emphatic 3-0 win over Fulham and are high on confidence as they finally look to compete for the top four this season.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs West Ham United
Defence
Mikel Arteta has a bunch of defenders out injured including Pablo Mari, Sokratis, David Luiz, Calum Chambers and Shkodran Mustafi. Even William Saliba didn’t feature in the squad that faced Fulham, though the Frenchman is thought to be available.
Regardless, the backline is likely to remain unchanged, with Kieran Tierney slotting in at centre-back ahead of Saliba, partnering Rob Holding. New signing Gabriel Magalhaes will marshal the Gunners defence, having enjoyed a remarkable Premier League debut last time out.
In goal, Arsenal have finally offloaded Emiliano Martinez, who has joined Aston Villa. It leaves Bernd Leno as the only experienced option in between the sticks, though Arteta will be keen on signing an alternative this summer.
Midfield
Arteta faces a selection dilemma in central midfield. Dani Ceballos is undoubtedly one of the best options he currently has in the middle of the park, but the Spaniard might be enticed to hand Mohamed Elneny another start following an impressive showing against Fulham.
However, Ceballos is likely to start one way or another as Granit Xhaka is a doubt heading into this game. The Swiss international picked up a knock in the last game and though it’s not serious, he is unlikely to be risked this weekend.
Elsewhere, Hector Bellerin may once again continue at right wingback ahead of Cedric and the same applies for Ainsley Maitland-Niles, though Bukayo Saka is pushing for a start too.
Attack
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, soon after signing the contract, has publicly said that he wants to become an Arsenal legend. So the Gabonese international will be hoping for yet another strong display on the left flank.
Willian is a favourite to start on the opposite flank, ahead of Nicolas Pepe and Reiss Nelson. The Brazilian international, signed from Chelsea this summer, was one of the best players in Arsenal’s win over Fulham, registering two assists. His creativity, therefore, could be useful for the Gunners this weekend.
In the number nine role, Alexandre Lacazette has been performing really well since the backend of last season. His work-rate, experience and tenacity make him likely to get the nod ahead of the young Eddie Nketiah.
