Mikel Arteta’s job could be on the line as Arsenal lock horns with Southampton at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. The Gunners tasted their fourth consecutive defeat at home in their last game against Burnley on Sunday and are winless in their last five league matches, during which they have scored only one goal. So things could get desperate as they look for the important three points this midweek.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs Southampton
Defence
It remains unlikely that we would see too many changes from the side that faced Burnley as they were performing quite well in the second half before Granit Xhaka’s red card.
However, with this being a midweek fixture, Arteta could entertain the idea of recalling Pablo Mari into the starting lineup. The Spaniard has been in excellent form since returning to full fitness, so he could get the nod ahead of Rob Holding and start alongside Gabriel Magalhaes at the heart of the four-man backline.
Another change in defence will be a forced one as Hector Bellerin will be suspended for this game after picking up too many yellow cards. It should pave the way for Cedric Soares to return to right-back while Kieran Tierney should once again occupy the opposite flank. Both of them will have the license to go forward as Arsenal desperately look to try and find a goal from open play.
As for Bernd Leno, he should also retain his place in between the sticks. The German is hoping for a much-needed clean sheet – something that has eluded them for the past three matches.
Midfield
Xhaka will be unavailable for Arsenal following his red card against Burnley. He joins Thomas Partey in Arsenal’s list of absentees meaning Arteta will have to choose between Joe Willock and Dani Ceballos as the desired midfield partner for Mohamed Elneny.
The Gunners are looking for a goal, so it won’t be surprising to see the former getting the nod due to his ability to make darting runs into the box. It should hand Arsenal numerical advantage going forward, though simultaneously making them more vulnerable in the middle of the park.
Attack
Arteta, this midweek, will be boosted by the return of Nicolas Pepe, who has served his three-game suspension. The Ivorian should replace Willian at right-wing with Bukayo Saka occupying the opposite flank.
These two should join Alexandre Lacazette in Arsenal’s creative trio, with the attack being led by none other than Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The club captain will be desperate for a goal after unfortunately finding his own net in the defeat to Burnley on Sunday.
