Slavia Prague vs Arsenal: Match Preview, Latest Team News and How to Watch | OneFootball

Match Preview: Slavia Prague vs Arsenal

Arsenal return to UEFA Champions League duty with a trip to Slavia Prague, a fixture that feels weighted with expectation rather than trepidation. Premier League supremacy has set a demanding backdrop, yet continental progress matters just as deeply for a squad aiming to evolve from strong contenders into habitual winners. The Gunners have navigated the league phase flawlessly so far, three wins from three and a 4-0 dismantling of Atletico Madrid, the sort of performance that has pundits talking about genuine pedigree rather than fleeting form.

Slavia Prague, meanwhile, approach this encounter searching for traction. Two points from three matches keeps them mathematically in the mix, but the Czech champions will recognise that they need something substantial in front of a partisan home crowd at the Fortuna Arena. Their goalless draw away at Atalanta showed resilience, however replicating such solidity against Arsenal will require precision, discipline and a measure of luck.

Key details for Slavia Prague vs Arsenal

The Champions League clash kicks off at 5.45pm GMT on Tuesday 4 November 2025 at the Fortuna Arena in Prague. UK viewers can watch live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available via Discovery+, and a dedicated live blog running across matchday with on the ground insight.

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Selection puzzles and squad depth in focus

Mikel Arteta faces another test of rotation management, complicated by injuries that nibble at key areas rather than decimate them. Viktor Gyokeres took a knock in the recent win at Burnley and is a doubt. Martin Zubimendi has also suffered a fitness issue yet was suspended for this European tie regardless. That leaves Mikel Merino again tasked with leading the line, supported by an attacking trio likely to feature Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze and Leandro Trossard, with Gabriel Martinelli still unavailable. Christian Norgaard is expected to make his first Champions League start, an intriguing subplot for observers curious about Arsenal’s midfield evolution.

Arteta remains careful not to let momentum suffer while also protecting legs for a packed winter schedule. Champions League group phases often reward depth more than glamour, and Arsenal’s recruitment strategy appears geared to this reality. A clean sheet, paired with control and professionalism, would reinforce the perception that this squad handles varying challenges with maturity.

Tactical expectations and prediction

Slavia Prague have built domestic dominance on structure and work rate, and they earned respect with that 0-0 showing in Bergamo. Yet Arsenal travel with confidence, rhythm and superior technical resources. The expectation is not arrogance, rather a recognition of levels: if the visitors impose their pace and movement early, the hosts may struggle to hold territory.

Prediction: Arsenal to win, 3-0. A controlled evening in the Czech capital, and another marker laid down in a competition where ambitions are no longer theoretical.