Arsenal Starting XI vs Nottingham Forest: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Arsenal prepare for Forest test with injury concerns shaping squad

Arsenal return to Premier League action at the Emirates on Saturday lunchtime as they face Nottingham Forest in a game that will test the squad’s resilience amid several injury concerns. Mikel Arteta has seen his side start the campaign with intent, but selection issues remain at the forefront as the Gunners aim to maintain momentum.

Key absentees ahead of Forest clash

Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both ruled out with knee injuries, a significant blow considering their attacking influence. Arsenal will also be without Bukayo Saka, who remains sidelined, forcing Arteta to consider reshaping his forward line.

New arrival Eberechi Eze, signed for more than £60 million from Crystal Palace, made his debut at Anfield two weeks ago and is expected to feature again. His creativity and ability to operate between the lines could be pivotal against a Forest side likely to sit deep.

Noni Madueke is tipped to take Saka’s place on the right, while there is a strong chance that Cristhian Mosquera, who impressed off the bench at Anfield, will partner Gabriel in central defence if William Saliba does not recover in time.

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Defensive reshuffle on the cards

Ben White, who has missed Arsenal’s last two fixtures, is set to return to the squad. His presence would offer much-needed depth, particularly with defensive rotations likely. Mosquera’s emergence has been timely, yet Saliba remains doubtful and will undergo late fitness checks.

Deadline-day signing Piero Hincapié is also pushing for a first appearance in Arsenal colours. The Ecuadorian defender’s versatility could provide Arteta with tactical flexibility, particularly if Forest look to exploit spaces in wide areas.

Christian Nørgaard has not featured since pre-season but has returned to full training this week. His availability, even if limited to a substitute role, adds further balance to midfield options alongside Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice and Martín Zubimendi.

Predicted Arsenal starting XI

Arteta is expected to persist with his 4-3-3 shape, focusing on midfield control and attacking width. The projected line-up for Saturday reads:

Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Calafiori; Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Madueke, Gyökeres, Eze.

Saliba is listed as doubtful, with Saka, Havertz and Jesus confirmed as unavailable.

Forest challenge at Emirates

Forest arrive at the Emirates seeking to frustrate Arsenal and take advantage of the home side’s fitness worries. Their physical approach and ability to counter could cause problems if Arsenal fail to break them down early. For Arteta, ensuring rhythm and sharpness from the opening whistle will be essential.

With Arsenal eager to keep pace in the Premier League, this match represents more than a routine fixture. It is a chance to integrate new signings further, manage injuries carefully and show that the depth of the squad is capable of sustaining the demands of the season.

Kick-off is scheduled for 12.30pm BST on Saturday, 13 September 2025, with coverage on TNT Sports.