Arsenal Lineup Prediction: Carabao Cup Clash vs. Preston North End
The Gunners are back in action, this time facing a tricky tie against Preston North End in the third round of the Carabao Cup. With a busy schedule ahead, Mikel Arteta will likely field a strong but rotated squad, aiming for a comfortable win and a place in the next round.
Here's a breakdown of the potential lineup for Arsenal:
Goalkeeper:
- Matt Turner: With Aaron Ramsdale likely rested, American international Matt Turner should get the nod between the sticks.
Defense:
- Takehiro Tomiyasu: The Japanese defender has been excellent since returning from injury and is likely to start at right-back.
- Rob Holding: The experienced center-back is a reliable option and will likely partner with…
- Gabriel Magalhaes: Gabriel should get a well-deserved rest, opening up the door for the promising young defender to make a start.
- Kieran Tierney: Tierney's return from injury is a welcome boost, and he is likely to be given minutes at left-back.
Midfield:
- Albert Sambi Lokonga: The Belgian midfielder has impressed in recent appearances and should feature in a deeper role.
- Granit Xhaka: While the Swiss midfielder has been a key figure this season, Arteta might decide to give him a rest, with...
- Fabio Vieira: The Portuguese midfielder is looking to make his mark and could be given an opportunity in the middle.
- Emile Smith Rowe: After a frustrating start to the season, Smith Rowe could be given a chance to regain his form and confidence.
Attack:
- Reiss Nelson: The young winger has been in impressive form and will be aiming to continue his development in this match.
- Gabriel Jesus: The Brazilian striker could be rested with the Premier League game against Manchester United looming, but it’s possible he’ll get some minutes.
- Eddie Nketiah: The young Englishman has been prolific in front of goal and will be looking to make an impact if given the chance.
Substitutes:
- Aaron Ramsdale: The first-choice goalkeeper will likely come on for the second half.
- William Saliba: The French defender has been impressive but could be saved for the weekend.
- Oleksandr Zinchenko: The Ukrainian left-back is a valuable asset but could be given a rest.
- Martin Ødegaard: The Norwegian captain is an important player but might be given a break.
- Bukayo Saka: The English winger is a key player for Arsenal and could be introduced if needed.
- Leandro Trossard: The Belgian winger is a potent attacking threat and could come off the bench.
Overall:
Arsenal have a strong squad and will be confident of progressing to the next round. While Arteta will likely make several changes, the quality of the substitutes will ensure that the team remains competitive and can challenge Preston North End effectively.
This lineup prediction is based on recent form, injury updates, and the importance of the upcoming Premier League clash. However, Mikel Arteta might have other plans up his sleeve, so it's always exciting to see how the manager sets up his team!