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

Arsenal face Turf Moor test

Clarets wind, cold Lancashire grit and Premier League ambition collide at Turf Moor this afternoon, as Arsenal travel to Burnley knowing momentum cannot be squandered. For all the elegance that often defines the Gunners, this fixture has the scent of sleeves rolled up and tempers hardened against a side desperate for points on home soil.

Arsenal supporters will be restless over William Saliba’s condition. The defender limped out of last week’s victory over Crystal Palace at half time, his ankle heavily strapped, and he missed the 2-0 triumph over Brighton in the Carabao Cup. Mikel Arteta remains cautious. “Saliba, we have to wait and see,” he said. “We have another training session this afternoon.”

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Injury picture and returning stars

Gabriel Martinelli will not feature at Burnley, his thigh issue ruling him out. Arsenal continue to nurse Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke back from knee injuries, a significant cluster of talent missing as winter approaches. There is optimism though, particularly ahead of the north London derby later this month. “[I am] excited because they are tremendous players. I see them work every single day, how desperate they are to be part of the team,” Arteta explained. “It will be a huge boost for the squad to have those players available again after such a long, long time. So, really happy that I think it is going to be very soon.”

Predicted Arsenal selections

Arteta rotated heavily in midweek and could do so again. David Raya is expected to stand firm in goal, shielded by Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori as full backs. Gabriel marshals the defence, with Cristhian Mosquera ready if Saliba fails his test. Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice should anchor midfield with Eberechi Eze, giving Arsenal composure and bite.

Up front, Viktor Gyokeres continues his adaptation, tasked with occupying Burnley’s defence and finishing ruthlessly. Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard flank him, both capable of deciding matches with a moment of clarity or courage.

Key battle in Burnley

Arsenal must marry control with steel against Burnley, who will look to disrupt rhythm and feed off Turf Moor’s energy. A professional display, clean combinations and defensive focus could push the Gunners closer to the summit as winter intensifies.