Following a horror show against Wolves, Arsenal are aiming to get back on track when they take on Aston Villa on Saturday. The Gunners’ excellent run of form was halted by a disappointing 2-1 defeat in the last game, but Mikel Arteta’s men have still shown promising signs and are more than capable of getting the better of the high flying Villans.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs Aston Villa
Defence
The Arsenal defence was in shambles in the second half against Wolves as they struggled to cope with ten men. The absence of the suspended David Luiz, though, should mark the return of Gabriel Magalhaes back into the starting eleven.
The Brazilian has been out of the first-team picture in recent times, but it could be an ideal opportunity for him to make an impression at centre-back alongside Rob Holding. Pablo Mari should also be in contention, although he is unlikely to get the nod ahead of Gabriel, having just returned from a calf injury.
Kieran Tierney will once again be unavailable. Therefore, Arteta has no option but to continue with Cedric Soares and Hector Bellerin in the fullback positions, especially after having sent Ainsley Maitland-Niles on loan to West Brom this week.
There will be a change in goal though after Bernd Leno picked up a straight red against Wolves. Summer signing Runar Alex Runarsson made a good impression and should get the nod.
Midfield
Arteta might want to consider giving Thomas Partey a rest after a run of the congested fixture. But given the importance of this tie, we expect the former Atletico Madrid star to continue in central midfield, alongside Granit Xhaka.
The leadership and experience of these two individuals could be key after a disappointing outing in the last game. Dani Ceballos, on the other hand, remains an alternative, should Arteta opt to rest Partey.
As for the attacking midfield position, Emile Smith Rowe should once again start ahead of new signing Martin Odegaard. However, the Norwegian is guaranteed to feature as a second-half substitute for the Gunners.
Attack
A huge positive for Arsenal in midweek was the return of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. Unfortunately, it could be a little difficult for him to get into the starting eleven, especially with Nicolas Pepe, Bukayo Saka and Alexandre Lacazette in top form. He is likely to be used as a second-half substitute, though, with Willian and Gabriel Martinelli also providing alternatives.
