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

Arsenal vs Brighton: Predicted Line Up, How to Watch and Key Match Insights

Arsenal return to Premier League action this weekend with Brighton arriving at the Emirates Stadium, as the title race continues to gather pace. With the Gunners top of the table and momentum firmly on their side, this fixture carries significance both in terms of points and perception. Below is a detailed, match-focused preview covering how to watch, the predicted line up, and the wider context around Arsenal’s current position.

Match context and momentum

Arsenal enter this round having steadied themselves after a brief wobble earlier in the month. Since the defeat at Aston Villa, results have been managed professionally rather than spectacularly, but that ability to grind out wins has become a defining trait of their campaign. Narrow victories over Wolves and Everton, coupled with progress in domestic and European competitions, underline a squad that has learned how to navigate pressure.

Brighton, meanwhile, remain awkward opponents regardless of venue. They are tactically disciplined, comfortable in possession and rarely overawed by the occasion. However, suspensions and injuries have disrupted their rhythm, particularly in defensive areas, and that could prove costly against an Arsenal side that thrives on territorial dominance at home.

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Arsenal injury situation and squad outlook

The hosts continue to juggle an extensive injury list. Gabriel remains unavailable, while Ben White is sidelined with a hamstring issue. There are also doubts around Piero Hincapie, and Kai Havertz’s return has been delayed once again. On a more positive note, there is optimism that Gabriel Martinelli could feature after shaking off a minor knock, which would provide a welcome boost on the left flank.

Despite those absences, Arsenal’s squad depth has been tested repeatedly this season and the system has remained intact. The midfield balance has been particularly impressive, allowing the side to control games even when personnel change.

Predicted line up for Arsenal

Assuming no late setbacks, Arsenal are expected to line up in a familiar shape. David Raya should continue in goal, protected by a back four likely to include Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko, with William Saliba anchoring the defence. The midfield trio is set to revolve around Declan Rice, whose influence has been central to Arsenal’s consistency, alongside creative support from Martin Odegaard.

In attack, Bukayo Saka is a near certainty on the right, with Martinelli expected to return on the opposite side if cleared. The central forward role remains fluid, but recent selections suggest continuity rather than experimentation. This predicted line up reflects a preference for stability at a stage of the season where disruption can be costly.

How to watch Arsenal vs Brighton

Supporters in the UK will not be able to watch the match live on television due to the Saturday 3pm blackout. This regulation remains in place to protect attendance across the football pyramid. However, there are still several ways to follow the action.

Live commentary and minute-by-minute updates will be available via online match blogs, while free highlights will be shown later in the evening. Sky Sports platforms will publish clips shortly after full-time, with Match of the Day airing on BBC One later on Saturday night. International viewers should check local listings for broadcast details, as coverage varies by region.

What to expect on the pitch

Arsenal are likely to dominate possession and territory, seeking to pin Brighton back and exploit wide areas early. Brighton’s ability to play through pressure means this will not be a straightforward exercise, but their absentees at centre-back could leave them vulnerable to sustained waves of attack.

For Arsenal, patience will be key. Recent performances suggest they are comfortable winning without overwhelming opponents, a quality often associated with champions rather than contenders. If they can strike first, the game should open up in their favour.

This fixture may not define the season on its own, but it represents another checkpoint in Arsenal’s pursuit of sustained excellence. With the predicted line up offering continuity and clarity, and clear guidance on how to watch despite broadcast restrictions, all signs point towards a focused home performance.