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

Arsenal prepare for Premier League showdown with City

Arsenal welcome Manchester City to the Emirates on Sunday in one of the most highly anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season. Both sides are expected to challenge for the title again and the latest team news has offered intrigue as Mikel Arteta weighs up his options against Pep Guardiola’s champions.

Speaking on Friday, Arteta admitted that there are still uncertainties over some of his key players. “If there is a chance [that they play against City], it will be after tomorrow’s session because they haven’t done anything yet,” he said. “We will have more information tomorrow. Everything has been modified so far for them and there are still a few things to clear. Tomorrow we will have more information as to whether they are part of the squad or not.”

Injuries and doubts shaping Arsenal’s selection

The biggest questions centre on Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka. Odegaard’s absence in midweek allowed Mikel Merino to feature, and the Spain international could keep his place if the captain is not passed fit. Merino did suffer a head knock during the win away to Athletic Club, as did striker Viktor Gyokeres, but both have been cleared to play. “They are fine,” Arteta said. “They will be available.”

Saka’s fitness is also under scrutiny and his absence would hand Noni Madueke another opportunity in attack. Signed from Chelsea in the summer, Madueke has impressed with his energy and directness on the right flank.

William Saliba, who has been managing a minor injury, was named among the substitutes against Athletic Club but was not used. Arteta admitted a decision will be taken close to kick-off. “Let’s see,” he explained. “Obviously he has been carrying an injury. He has done really well to be available for the last match. He is really pushing it, so we will decide tomorrow what is the best to start.”

Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus remain unavailable with knee problems, leaving Arsenal without two senior attacking options at a crucial stage of the campaign.

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Predicted Arsenal XI to face City

If Arteta is forced to make late changes, it could lead to some reshuffling across the pitch. The expectation is that David Raya will continue in goal, with Jurrien Timber, Saliba, Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori forming the defensive line. In midfield, Merino is likely to partner Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice, while Madueke and Eberechi Eze support Gyokeres up front.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Merino, Zubimendi, Rice, Madueke, Gyokeres, Eze.

Doubts: Odegaard, Saka, White.Injured: Havertz, Jesus.

Premier League stage set at the Emirates

This meeting between Arsenal and City feels significant even at this early stage of the Premier League season. Both managers are well aware of the fine margins that separate success and frustration at the top of the table. The Emirates is expected to provide a fierce atmosphere for the late Sunday kick-off as Arsenal look to show they can compete once again with the reigning champions.

Kick-off is scheduled for 4.30pm BST on Sunday 21 September 2025. The match will be shown live on Sky Sports.