Arsenal XI vs Chelsea: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news and injury latest for Premier League | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta has decisions to make in attack for clash at Emirates Stadium

Declan Rice will start for Arsenal against Chelsea on Sunday

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Your matchday briefing on Arsenal, featuring team news and expert analysis from Simon Collings

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Gabriel Martinelli could make his first Arsenal start in over a month in Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Chelsea at Emirates Stadium.

Arteta has decisions to make in attack as Arsenal bid to cut the gap to Liverpool to 13 points.

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Raheem Sterling is not eligible face his parent club Chelsea.

Ethan Nwaneri, who was rested for Wednesday’s 2-2 Champions League draw with PSV, should start on the right and Leandro Trossard may lead the line instead of Mikel Merino.

Bukayo Saka is “getting closer” to making his comeback but remains sidelined.

Saka has not played for Arsenal since tearing his hamstring in December.

The winger is progressing well with his recovery and could return next month when the Gunners host Fulham after the international break.

“He’s getting closer, he’s stepping up and making a very good progress I would say,” said Mikel Arteta.

“So, let’s see when we start to throw him in with the team, how he reacts and how fit he can get quickly.”

Ben White started against PSV but is still building up his fitness after undergoing knee surgery in November, so Jurrien Timber could start at right-back.

Arsenal predicted XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Nwaneri, Trossard, Martinelli

Injured: Havertz (hamstring), Jesus (knee), Saka (hamstring), Tomiyasu (knee)

Ineligible: Sterling

Time and date: 1.30pm GMT on Sunday 16 March 2025

Venue: Emirates Stadium

Referee: Chris Kavanagh

TV channel and live stream: Sky Sports