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

Arsenal face late calls ahead of Bournemouth test

Arsenal head to the south coast with uncertainty clouding their midfield, as Declan Rice remains a doubt for the evening trip to Bournemouth. The England international was forced to sit out the midweek victory over Aston Villa after suffering a knee blow against Brighton, an impact that caused swelling and disrupted his availability.

Mikel Arteta confirmed the issue has yet to fully settle, leaving Arsenal weighing up their options carefully before kick off at 5:30pm GMT.

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“Well not yet,” the Arsenal boss said.“We have another session today, let’s see how he comes today and how that’s feeling. It was too early [against Villa] for him.”

Rice’s potential absence would alter the balance of Arsenal’s midfield for a fixture that demands control, tempo and physical authority.

Midfield options under scrutiny

If Rice is ruled out, Mikel Merino appears the most natural replacement to maintain structure and defensive cover. There is also intrigue surrounding Eberechi Eze, who could be handed his first Premier League minutes since mid December, although that would represent a more creative and attacking adjustment against Bournemouth.

Martin Odegaard remains central to Arsenal’s rhythm, with the captain expected to orchestrate play regardless of who partners him deeper in midfield.

Defensive fitness remains delicate

In defence, Cristhian Mosquera continues to recover from an ankle injury, while Riccardo Calafiori remains unavailable after failing to feature since the Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace. Gabriel and Jurrien Timber both started against Villa but were withdrawn late on due to fatigue.

Gabriel is likely to resume his partnership with William Saliba, while Ben White could step in at right back to manage Timber’s workload.

Attacking selection poses fresh debate

Further forward, Kai Havertz is fit but not ready to start, leaving Arteta choosing once more between Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus to lead the line. Leandro Trossard’s recent form strengthens his case for selection, potentially edging out Gabriel Martinelli as Arsenal look to sharpen their cutting edge against Bournemouth.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya, White, Gabriel, Saliba, Hincapie, Zubimendi, Merino, Odegaard, Saka, Jesus, Trossard

Injured: Mosquera, Calafiori, Dowman