As Arsenal gears up for a pivotal clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, manager Mikel Arteta finds himself in a relatively advantageous position with a fully fit squad at his disposal.
Following a commanding 3-0 victory over Bournemouth last Saturday, which saw only Jurrien Timber absent due to his ongoing recovery from an ACL injury, Arteta faces few selection headaches as he prepares his lineup for the impending showdown.
While Timber’s absence against Bournemouth may have hinted at a tactical decision rather than a fitness concern, the Dutch defender’s potential inclusion in the senior squad remains uncertain.
Nonetheless, Arteta has a plethora of options to choose from as he finalizes his starting eleven.
In goal, David Raya, recently crowned with the prestigious 2023-24 Golden Glove award, stands firm between the posts, supported by the formidable defensive pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Takehiro Tomiyasu has firmly established himself as the first-choice left-back, with Ben White providing stability on the opposite flank.
In midfield, the recent contract extension of Jorginho adds depth to Arteta’s options, but it’s Thomas Partey who commands the pivotal number six role, allowing Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard the freedom to influence proceedings further up the pitch.
The attacking trio of Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard showcases Arsenal’s attacking prowess, with Saka’s recent milestone of reaching 20 goals for the season adding to the team’s confidence.
Saka’s impressive record against Manchester United, coupled with the creative abilities of Havertz and Trossard, presents a formidable challenge for the opposition defense.
On the bench, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus provide Arteta with valuable options to change the game’s dynamics in the latter stages, offering fresh legs and attacking impetus as needed.
Arsenal Possible Starting Lineup:
Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard
With a balanced blend of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking flair, Arsenal enters the encounter with Manchester United well-equipped to secure a positive result and maintain their pursuit of success in the Premier League.
