Expected Arsenal formation (4-2-3-1) against Shakhtar Donetsk, featuring decisions on Martinelli and Merino confirmed…

Arsenal’s anticipated line-up (4-2-3-1) against Shakhtar Donetsk features key decisions regarding Martinelli and Merino.

As Arsenal prepares to host Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League on Tuesday evening, they are determined to bounce back from their recent setback.

The team faced their first defeat of the season against Bournemouth in the league, prompting manager Mikel Arteta to seek a robust reaction from his players.

Unfortunately, the squad has not received any positive news ahead of the match, with Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Jurrien Timber all missing from training.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Projected Line-up:

David Raya has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper for Arsenal in both Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

The Spanish keeper has delivered outstanding performances, making crucial saves, and is expected to retain his position in goal.

In defense, the back four is likely to remain unchanged from the defeat against Bournemouth.

Although William Saliba received a red card on Saturday, his suspension applies only to Premier League matches.

This presents an opportunity for the French defender to make amends alongside Gabriel Magalhaes in central defense.

Ben White and Riccardo Calafiori are anticipated to start in the right and left-back roles, respectively.

The manager’s decision to deploy three holding midfielders against Bournemouth was overly cautious, and we expect Mikel Merino to be relegated to the bench.

It is likely that Thomas Partey and Declan Rice will take up central midfield roles, with Leandro Trossard positioned as the number 10 this time.

This adjustment would allow Gabriel Martinelli to take his place on the left wing.

Raheem Sterling was Arsenal’s standout attacking player last weekend prior to his early exit and merits a starting position on the right wing, especially with Saka expected to be unavailable. We favor Kai Havertz to lead the attack over Gabriel Jesus.

Jesus has struggled with confidence in his role this season and may once again find himself coming off the bench.