Arsenal Welcome West Ham to the Emirates on Saturday
Arsenal will host West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday as they look to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table. With Liverpool dropping points recently, Mikel Arteta’s side has a golden opportunity to apply pressure in the title race.
The Gunners are keeping pace with the league leaders despite battling several injury concerns, particularly in attack. A win against a struggling West Ham side would reduce the gap to just five points, with Liverpool set to visit Manchester City on Sunday in a high-stakes encounter.
Injury Woes and Selection Dilemmas for Mikel Arteta
Arsenal’s squad remains largely unchanged from last week’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City. However, the club has confirmed that Takehiro Tomiyasu’s season has ended after undergoing knee surgery. The Japanese international has only played six minutes all season, and his absence further limits Arteta’s defensive options. Meanwhile, long-term injuries continue to sideline key players like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.
While Arsenal have found defensive and midfield stability, Arteta faces a tough decision regarding his attacking lineup. With injuries piling up, he may have to make a bold call in selecting his forward line.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs West Ham (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper
GK: David Raya – Raya secured his ninth clean sheet of the season last weekend and is closing in on the current Golden Glove leader, Matz Sels, who has ten. The Spaniard remains Arsenal’s undisputed number one and will be eager to maintain his stellar form.
Defenders
RB: Jurrien Timber – With Ben White expected to make his return off the bench, Timber will likely retain his starting role at right-back. The Dutchman has been solid when called upon and provides a reliable presence in defense.
CB: William Saliba – Saliba is set to face West Ham’s latest signing, Evan Ferguson, who could make his debut. The French defender will need to be at his best to contain the young Irish striker’s pace and movement.
CB: Gabriel Magalhães – Gabriel has been a commanding figure at the heart of Arsenal’s defense this season. His leadership and composure will be crucial in nullifying West Ham’s counter-attacks.
LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly – After a game-saving intervention against Leicester last week, Lewis-Skelly deserves to keep his place in the starting XI. The youngster has impressed in his opportunities and continues to grow in confidence.
Midfielders
CM: Thomas Partey – The Ghanaian midfielder has been one of Arteta’s most trusted players this season. His defensive awareness and ability to dictate play will be vital against West Ham’s deep defensive setup.
CM: Declan Rice – Facing his former club, Rice will be keen to make an impact against West Ham. His ability to make late runs into the box has added an extra dimension to Arsenal’s attack, and he could play a key role in breaking the opposition down.
CM: Martin Odegaard – With West Ham expected to sit deep, Odegaard’s creativity and passing range will be crucial in unlocking their defense. His ability to find space and link up with the front line could determine the outcome of the match.
Forwards
RW: Ethan Nwaneri – The 17-year-old was sensational at the King Power Stadium last week, showcasing his dribbling and creativity. With Arsenal’s attack depleted, Nwaneri has a big role to play in the team’s push for the title.
ST: Mikel Merino – Arsenal struggled in attack until Merino’s introduction last week. With Raheem Sterling failing to impress, Arteta may opt to start Merino as a makeshift striker. His brace against Leicester secured the win, and he could be pivotal once again.
LW: Leandro Trossard – Trossard has been in fine form on the left wing, consistently delivering quality crosses and creating chances. His movement and technical ability make him a constant threat in the final third.
Key Match Insights
- Arsenal are looking to cut the gap to Liverpool and keep their title hopes alive.
- Injuries continue to be a major concern, particularly in attack.
- West Ham have struggled in recent weeks, making this a must-win game for the Gunners.
- Declan Rice faces his former club and could play a crucial role in midfield.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be desperate for three points as they continue their pursuit of the Premier League title. With Liverpool and Manchester City set to battle on Sunday, Arsenal have a prime opportunity to gain ground at the top of the table.
Final Thoughts
Arsenal’s predicted lineup for the clash against West Ham is heavily influenced by injuries, but the Gunners still have the quality to secure a victory. The midfield remains strong with the presence of Partey, Rice, and Odegaard, while the attack will rely on young talents like Nwaneri and the versatility of Merino.
A win at the Emirates will keep Arsenal firmly in the title race, making this a crucial fixture for Mikel Arteta’s men.
