Arteta to recall key trio for Champions League clash: Arsenal predicted XI v Sporting | OneFootball

Arsenal face a stern test in the Champions League as they travel to Portugal to take on Primeira Liga giants Sporting CP in Lisbon.

The Gunners will be looking to bounce back from their recent domestic struggles and secure a vital win that could solidify their position in the group stage.

Mikel Arteta’s side will be buoyed by their 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, where young Ethan Nwaneri stole the show with his late cameo and goal.

However, the return of key players could be the real difference-maker for Arsenal. Declan Rice, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz are all expected to return to the starting line-up after being dropped to the bench to get rest against Forest.

While Kieran Tierney could be included in the squad for the first time in 15 months, he’ll likely not start immediately. The Scottish left-back has been sidelined with a hamstring injury but has recently returned to training. Only Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are out.

Sporting allowed Ruben Amorim to join Manchester United and hired former player Joao Pereira as their new manager. He won his first match in charge 6-0 against Amarante in the Taca de Portugal on Friday.

Sporting will pose a significant threat, especially with in-form striker Viktor Gyokeres leading the line. The Swedish forward has been in red-hot form, scoring 17 goals in his last nine appearances.

Sporting have been one of the best teams in Europe this season, winning 17 of their last 18 games since losing 4-3 to Porto in the Super Cup.

They are six points clear at the top of the Primeira Liga table, and only Liverpool have a better record in the Champions League, making a statement with the 4-1 thumping of Manchester City.

The last time they faced Arsenal in Europe, they sent the Gunners packing in the Europa League round 16. They will be reeling with confidence.

Meanwhile, Arsenal’s recent away form in the Champions League has been underwhelming, with the Gunners winless in their last five road matches.

However, a victory in Lisbon could change the narrative and give them a boost in their quest for a place in the knockout stages.

Arsenal Predicted XI v Sporting

Arsenal (4-3-3): David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Riccardo Calafiori; Martin Odegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice; Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli.