Arsenal Team News: Arsenal is expected to field a strong lineup against Chelsea, Kai Havertz to return; Odegaard and Rice decisions made…

Arsenal Team Update: Projected Lineup Against Chelsea as Odegaard and Rice Decisions Loom

Arsenal is set to face Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday, prompting Mikel Arteta to make significant decisions regarding his lineup.

The Gunners head to Stamford Bridge aiming to reverse their recent slump, having suffered consecutive defeats to Newcastle United and Inter Milan. With only two victories in their last six matches, securing three points in this London derby is crucial for Arsenal to maintain pace with their title contenders.

Currently, league leaders Liverpool hold a seven-point advantage over Arsenal, intensifying the pressure on Arteta amid several injury concerns.

Express Sport analyzes how the manager might configure his squad for the eagerly awaited clash against Chelsea.

Arsenal projected XI vs Chelsea (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper – Raya

David Raya faced a penalty at the San Siro on Wednesday but had minimal action otherwise. The situation is expected to be different at Stamford Bridge.

Defense – White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber

The defensive lineup is likely to remain the same, with Kieran Tierney (hamstring), Riccardo Calafiori, and Takehiro Tomiyasu (both knee) unavailable.

Ben White returned to the squad against Inter and is expected to retain his position, while Jurrien Timber will continue in an unfamiliar left-back role.

Timber will face a significant challenge against the agile Noni Madueke, who has emerged as a key attacking threat for Enzo Maresca’s side this season.

The solid partnership between William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes will be vital for Arsenal to secure a positive outcome in west London.

Midfield – Partey, Rice, Odegaard

Declan Rice is uncertain for the match after missing the trip to Milan due to a broken toe. He has not participated in training this week and will undergo a late fitness assessment before Sunday.

However, Rice is reportedly willing to play through the discomfort to support Arteta, as his presence was notably missed in the previous match.

Despite Arsenal’s challenges this season, Thomas Partey has regained some of his top form and should be utilized once more.

A significant highlight is the return of captain Martin Odegaard, who came on as a substitute against Inter. Arteta has indicated that any player in the squad at Chelsea is fit to start.

In the attack, Saka, Martinelli, and Jesus are expected to lead. However, Kai Havertz sustained a head injury during the match against Inter and required stitches, making him doubtful for the match against his former club.

This situation may present a rare chance for Gabriel Jesus to take the starting position.

Bukayo Saka is guaranteed to start on the right wing, while Gabriel Martinelli is likely to be preferred over Leandro Trossard on the left.

Arteta will be looking for increased performance from his entire front three, especially after witnessing Arsenal’s failure to score in their last two matches.