The Football Faithful
·31 January 2026
Leeds United vs Arsenal – Match preview and team news

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Yahoo sportsThe Football Faithful
·31 January 2026

The Premier League’s top spot is under scrutiny on Saturday as League leaders Arsenal travel to Yorkshire to face a revitalised Leeds United side.
Mikel Arteta’s men arrive in a rare domestic rut. They are winless in their last three top-flight outings. A bruising 3–2 defeat to Manchester United has trimmed their lead to four points. Conversely, Leeds have undergone a remarkable transformation since the turn of the year. Daniel Farke’s side has lost just once in their last 10 league games. They have turned Elland Road into a fortress recently.
Daniel Farke is dealing with several key absences for this home fixture. Forward Lukas Nmecha and defender Jaka Bijol are both ruled out. Gabriel Gudmundsson is a major doubt due to an adductor problem. However, winger Daniel James has returned to training this week. Midfielder Anton Stach is fit to start after playing against Everton.
Mikel Arteta expects to welcome back William Saliba and Jurriën Timber. Both defenders missed the midweek European trip with minor knocks. Declan Rice and Mikel Merino are available following their continental suspensions. Kai Havertz could earn his first league start of the season today. Youngster Max Dowman remains the only long-term injury absentee.
The Whites have become a tough nut to crack at home. They remain unbeaten in their last five league games at Elland Road. Notably, Leeds have won three and drawn two during this period. Farke’s side recently secured a 1–1 draw at Everton on Monday night. They currently sit six points clear of the relegation zone.
Arsenal have made hay in Europe despite their domestic stutters. They won all eight of their Champions League group matches. Crucial to their success, Declan Rice is set for his 300th league appearance. However, the Gunners must overcome a poor recent league record. They have taken just two points from the last nine available.
Leeds United Predicted XI: Darlow; Rodon, Struijk, Bornauw; Bogle, Gruev, Stach, Ampadu, Justin; Aaronson, Calvert-Lewin
Arsenal Predicted XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Jesus, Trossard
The match is not broadcast live in the UK due to blackout rules. Fans can follow live audio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live. Full highlights will air on Match of the Day at 22:30 GMT.








































