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

Arsenal vs Everton: Predicted Lineup, Injury Updates, and Key Players to Watch

As Arsenal prepare for their Premier League clash against Everton, Mikel Arteta faces a crucial selection dilemma. The Gunners are aiming to stay top of the table as they approach Christmas, but they must overcome the challenge posed by an Everton side that has been hard to predict this season. With Manchester City playing earlier in the day, Arsenal could find themselves second in the league by the time they take to the field, making this match even more vital.

Key Decisions for Arteta in Attack

One of the biggest decisions Arteta must make revolves around the striker position. Viktor Gyokeres, who has struggled since returning from a hamstring injury, has failed to find the net in his last ten Premier League appearances. His performance in Arsenal’s recent victory over Wolves was less than convincing, leading to speculation that Arteta could opt for a change in the forward line.

Mikel Merino, who impressed during Gyokeres’ absence by scoring twice and assisting three times in a run of five games, has put himself in contention for a starting role. Arteta has acknowledged Merino’s good form, saying, “He’s certainly an option. I think he’s given us every reason as well to consider him in a really serious way.”

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There’s also the potential return of Gabriel Jesus, who has been out since January. Although the Carabao Cup match against Crystal Palace could provide a more suitable platform for his return, his inclusion in the starting XI is not out of the question for this fixture.

Defensive and Midfield Concerns

In terms of defensive options, Riccardo Calafiori, who has served a suspension, is available again and could slot straight back into the left-back position. His return adds depth to an already solid defensive unit, alongside William Saliba, who has been a key figure at the back for Arsenal this season.

Meanwhile, in midfield, Arteta may opt for a change. Martin Ødegaard could make his way back into the starting lineup after a brief stint on the bench in the win over Wolves. His creativity and leadership in the middle of the park have been central to Arsenal’s success this season, and his presence could provide the attacking drive Arsenal need against a resilient Everton side.

On the left wing, Leandro Trossard has been a standout performer of late, impressing with his pace and work rate. With Gabriel Martinelli perhaps being rested, Trossard looks poised to start, offering Arsenal a dynamic attacking option to complement Bukayo Saka on the opposite flank.

Everton’s Challenge

Everton, under manager David Moyes, will be looking to make things difficult for Arsenal. Although their form has been inconsistent, they are always a tough side to break down, particularly when they set up to frustrate their opponents. The Toffees will need to be at their defensive best to contain the likes of Saka, Trossard, and potentially Merino, who could pose serious threats on the counter-attack.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Everton (4-3-3)

Injuries: Gabriel, White, Havertz, Mosquera, Dowman

As Arsenal look to keep pace at the top of the Premier League, this fixture against Everton presents a crucial opportunity. Arteta’s decisions, particularly in attack, will go a long way in determining whether the Gunners can maintain their place near the summit heading into the festive period.