Following back to back defeats in the Premier League, Arsenal are in desperate need of a win when they welcome Leeds United on Sunday. The Gunners’ excellent recovery in January has been derailed by a couple of loose performances that sees them trail their weekend opponents, and yet another mishap could see them lose further ground in the league table.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup Vs Leeds United
Defence
Kieran Tierney wasn’t included in the squad against Aston Villa despite reports claiming otherwise heading into the game. Nevertheless, the fullback has recovered from the calf issue but could be out this weekend mainly due to fatigue. Cedric Soares could thus continue to deputise for him in the left-back position.
Hector Bellerin, on the other hand, is a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank, with Mikel Arteta unlikely to make any unforced changes in the fullback department.
The Spaniard, though, could be tempted to recall Pablo Mari into action. But given the defender’s lack of game-time, drafting him in the starting eleven could prove to be a risk against the high octane Leeds United attack.
Therefore, Gabriel Magalhaes and Rob Holding could continue in central defence, with Bernd Leno returning in goal following his one-match suspension, thus leaving Mat Ryan on the bench.
Midfield
Thomas Partey remains a doubt in this game, but unlike Tierney, his issue isn’t as serious. Yet, the Ghanaian international is unlikely to be risked and could make way for Dani Ceballos in midfield.
The Spaniard will be tasked with the responsibility of providing the creative essence alongside Granit Xhaka, who could operate much deeper in Arsenal’s double-pivot this weekend. Mohamed Elneny is another option should Arteta prefer a more defensive approach.
Attack
Things do get quite interesting in the attacking unit, especially after the return of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The Gabonese international had to settle for a place on the bench against Aston Villa and may have to do so again, considering Alexandre Lacazette’s recent form.
Arsenal look much better with the Frenchman spearheading the attack while Nicolas Pepe has been in excellent form, of late. Hence, they could get the nod ahead of Aubameyang in the final third with Pepe and Bukayo Saka operating in the wider attacking positions.
These two, along with the main playmaker in Emile Smith Rowe, are set to supply Lacazette in the number nine role. Aubameyang, Willian and new signing Martin Odegaard remain potential alternatives for Arteta in the final third.
