Arsenal (4-3-3) lineup vs Dinamo Zagreb: 2 big changes; Calafiori, Nwaneri on the bench…

Arsenal’s anticipated lineup against Dinamo Zagreb features no changes, with Calafiori and Nwaneri set to be on the bench.

On Wednesday, Arsenal will welcome Dinamo Zagreb to the Emirates, and manager Mikel Arteta is likely to maintain the same squad that played on Saturday.

The Gunners aim to solidify their position in the top eight of the Champions League, as they are currently in an excellent standing.

Following the match against Dinamo Zagreb, they will travel to Girona for their final league-phase encounter next week.

Arteta is targeting six points from these two matches, which could secure them an automatic qualification spot.

In his pre-match press conference, Arteta provided updates on the fitness of two important players, Riccardo Calafiori and rising star Ethan Nwaneri, both of whom have returned to full training.

He also discussed the impact of the young player and addressed William Saliba’s injury status.

Regarding the return of Calafiori and Nwaneri, Arteta remarked, “It’s very positive news.

“We’ve missed them for a few weeks, and they returned today for training, so they will be available for the game.”

On the other hand, Saliba sustained an injury during the North London Derby, with a muscular issue cited as the cause of his absence over the weekend. He is not expected to participate in the match against Dinamo Zagreb.

Arteta provided an update on Saliba, stating, “He is evolving well; he has been feeling much better over the last few days, but this game comes a little too soon for him.”

Arteta also reflected on Nwaneri’s return and its significance, saying, “Yes, it was a big setback because he was gaining consistency and more minutes.

“We had him playing in a different position, and he was performing well, then suddenly this happens. It’s understandable given the increased load, and this is something we need to manage.”

Calafiori has resumed training, but it may be premature to expect him to start, despite the possibility of providing Arteta with an option in central defense during Saliba’s absence.

The Italian international could still be utilized as a substitute to support one of the starting defenders, which would enhance Arsenal’s squad depth.

Regarding the lineup, Arteta is anticipated to maintain the same starting eleven that faced Aston Villa on Saturday.

Thomas Partey will remain at right-back, with Jurrien Timber stepping in for Saliba to partner with Gabriel Magalhaes. This also allows for another opportunity for the impressive Myles Lewis-Skelly to start at left-back.

The midfield is set to remain unchanged, featuring Declan Rice in a holding role, flanked by Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino.

Gabriel Martinelli will persist on the right wing, while the standout Leandro Trossard retains his position on the left, with Kai Havertz spearheading the attack for Arsenal.