Arsenal’s starting lineup against Girona features Tierney, with Lewis-Skelly included, as Arteta makes strategic rotations in preparation for the significant match against Manchester City…

Arsenal’s Line-Up Against Girona: Tierney Starts, Lewis-Skelly Returns, Arteta’s Rotation Strategy

Arsenal’s match against Girona will showcase Tierney in the starting lineup, alongside Lewis-Skelly, as Arteta rotates his players in light of the upcoming key game against Manchester City.

As Arsenal prepares to take on Girona at the Estadi Montilivi on Wednesday, the team aims to conclude the first phase of the Champions League with a strong performance, securing their place in the last 16. With a crucial match against Manchester City looming, squad rotation is a priority.

Mikel Arteta welcomes back Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino, both of whom were absent during the match against Wolves. However, Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain unavailable.

Anticipating changes, Kieran Tierney is likely to feature, and goalkeeper Neto, who has yet to debut for the club, may also get his chance. In light of this, football.london shares its perspective on the ideal starting lineup for the European fixture.

The focus on rotation is essential as I seek to rest key players ahead of the weekend clash with Manchester City. While David Raya may not require a break, it is crucial to give Neto some playing time after his prolonged wait.

Key players such as Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Odegaard should be managed carefully to minimize their exposure.

However, Odegaard might need some minutes after missing the last match due to illness. Consequently, Thomas Partey, Jakub Kiwior, and Kieran Tierney will form the defensive line alongside Gabriel Magalhaes.

Myles Lewis-Skelly, returning from a controversial red card, will take his natural position in midfield alongside Jorginho and Mikel Merino.

In the attacking front, Leandro Trossard will lead the line, supported by Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling on the wings to provide rest for Havertz and Martinelli.

Canton’s Predicted Arsenal XI vs Girona: Neto; Partey, Kiwior, Gabriel, Tierney; Jorginho, Lewis-Skelly, Merino; Nwaneri, Sterling, Trossard.

An ever-present player for Arsenal has been dropped! While this may seem dramatic, it is more about the reality that if this opportunity is missed, it is unlikely that Neto will ever don the Gunners’ jersey.

He will start in goal to allow David Raya some rest following a series of strong performances. In defense, there may be a few adjustments, but some decisions remain challenging. William Saliba made his return from a hamstring injury in the last match, so it might be wise to rest him again.

However, I would lean towards giving Gabriel a break instead, allowing Saliba to play for about an hour to regain his rhythm and ensure he is prepared for the match against Man City this weekend.

I plan to position Thomas Partey at right-back, with Saliba and Jakub Kiwior in central defense, and Myles Lewis-Skelly will return after his unfortunate tackle last weekend.