Significant changes predicted in midfield and in attack that will.propel Arsenal in the final of the CL

By Danong 

Arsenal are back in action on Tuesday, hosting Atlético Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The first leg ended all square, with the two sides playing out a 1-1 draw at the Wanda Metropolitano. Tuesday night, however, a winner must emerge, and Arsenal will be hoping that on familiar ground, they are the ones who come out on top.

Earlier in the season, when the Gunners hosted Atletico in the Champions League league phase, they thrashed them 4-0. A similar result on Tuesday night will book the north Londoners a place in the 2026 Champions League final, set for the Puskás Arena in Budapest, Hungary on Saturday, 30 May.

On Saturday, Mikel Arteta reintroduced Ricardo Calafiori and Bukayo Saka in his starting 11 in that convincing 3-0 win over Fulham, with Myles Lewis-Skelly replacing Martin Zubimendi in midfield also proving another astute tactical call.

Against the La Liga outfit, Gooners will be hoping Arteta produces similarly sharp thinking to outwit Diego Simeone.

Notably, the Arsenal boss is boosted by the availability of both Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard, a significant lift ahead of such a high-stakes occasion.

With the returning duo back in the squad alongside the formidable side Arteta fielded on Saturday, Atletico have every reason to be worried.

Arteta could opt to play:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Odegaard, Eze

Saka, Havertz, Trossard

With this line-up, Arteta would be making some bold and necessary calls, the most significant being up front, Havertz for Gyökeres and choosing an attack oriented midfield by dropping Zubimendi for Odegaard. 

While Victor Gyokeres reminded everyone at the weekend just what a deadly finisher he is, Havertz represents the better option against Atletico. The German international's movement and work rate suit the demands of a tight two-legged tie far better.

His technical brilliance, alongside Eberechi Eze and Odegaard, could prove the key to unlocking Atletico's typically resolute defence, creating the openings for Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard to capitalise on.

That line-up should comfortably be too strong for Atletico, and could see Arsenal take a decisive step closer to European glory.

I hope Spurs win tonight!

 By 1970s Gooner 

The reason is pretty simple. City play Villa at the Etihad on the last day of the season, 24th May. You would ideally want Villa to be up for this game and try and get a result there.

But if they manage to hang on to the 5th place they hold right now or win the final of the Europa league (if they beat Nottingham Forest and qualify) then they will have very little incentive to be competitive for this game.

The final of the Europa League is four days prior to the last game of the season.

So I hope they loose tonight to Spurs, lose more games slipping away from European qualification and also fail to qualify for the Europa league final.

Time to add more creativity in the team. Predicted 11 Vs Fulham

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Arsenal are back at the Emirates on Saturday night, hosting Fulham as they look to keep their title charge alive.

Hoping to quench their thirst for league glory, it surely needs no emphasis that the Gunners simply cannot afford to slip. Only a win will do, with Manchester City breathing down their neck.

Bukayo Saka is back and trying to find his rhythm, whilst Ricardo Calafiori also returns. However, Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz.

Even so, Mikel Arteta should have a capable enough side to dispatch the Cottagers. He could go for:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard.

Alternatively if Odegaard cannot shake off the niggling knee problem that has followed him since the away game at Brentford there is the more attractive option of starting Eze. This will provide a more attacking threat as well as a player who can come up with a magic moment to win a what could be a close game.

There is the more attractive option to start both Odegaard, if he is fit, and Eze in midfield. Under this scenario Zubimendi will be rested for the second leg of the Semi-final against Athletico Madrid.

Against Atlético Madrid, Arteta made one brilliant tactical tweak, deploying Declan Rice as a six.

That adjustment made Arsenal more defensively strong and balanced, something the Gunners have been crying out for. Against Fulham, it could lay the foundation for yet another important win.

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Odegaard, Eze

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard

Earlier in the season, when these two sides met, Arsenal came out on top with a 1-0 victory. Last season, too, the boys in red and white did not lose this London derby, winning at home and drawing at Craven Cottage.

Surely, when they absolutely need to beat Fulham, you would back Arsenal to do so.

Then the hope will be that Everton have enough in them to halt Manchester City on Monday at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Arteta's perfect tweak to get Arsenal firing on all cylinders against Atlético

By Danong 

The Champions League semi-finals are here, with Arsenal heading off to Madrid to face Atletico at the Wanda Metropolitano.

With Premier League and Champions League glory both at stake, the boys in red and white will need to bring their A-game across these remaining fixtures.

Mikel Arteta and his squad will be hoping to build on the weekend's win over Newcastle, which saw them reclaim top spot in the league.

Bukayo Saka returned in that 1-0 victory over the Magpies and produced an eye-catching cameo, while Kai Havertz, who was withdrawn with a muscular issue, is not likely to be available. Eberechi Eze, who also picked up a muscular issue against Newcastle and could not finish the game, is similarly set to be fit.

Similarly, Martin Zubimendi felt unwell at half-time against the Magpies but should be fine to return, though Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber are likely to remain unavailable. On the brighter side, Ricardo Calafiori could be back, a welcome boost.

All things considered, Arteta should have a pretty decent squad to call upon on Wednesday night, and could opt to go with:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

This line-up should certainly have enough to take care of an Atlético side whom they put four past back in October's Champions League league phase clash.

That said, Saka and Eze should drown Viktor Gyokeres with chances, and hopefully, he brings his scoring boots. Arsenal needs goals badly. This is a game where they must really step up and put an end to the worrying run of just one goal in their last seven competitive outings.

That said, having kept an impressive eight clean sheets in this season's Champions League campaign, securing a ninth on Wednesday night would go a long way in helping the boys in red and white put one foot in the final.

Arsenal have it in them to finally get over the line and bring glory back to North London. Predicted 11 vs Newcastle

By Danong 

Arsenal are back at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening as they host Newcastle in a Premier League Match Day 34 fixture.

Last time out, at the Etihad Stadium, the North Londoners hoped to cushion their lead at the top with a win over Manchester City. Unfortunately, though, they could not deliver. It was a tight contest, but City managed to nick a 2-1 win and as disappointing as that was, things got worse for the boys in red and white midweek when the Cityzens beat Burnley 1-0 to go top of the table.

Against Newcastle, Mikel Arteta will be hoping his side rises to the occasion. He will be hoping they can bring their A-game and shake off their poor league run, having lost their last two league games. Their performance against City last Sunday was certainly encouraging. 

His team will know that a win on Saturday returns them to the top of the league and puts pressure on Guardiola's side.

Looking at their opponents, Newcastle have simply not been at their competitive best this season. The Magpies are winless in their last three league games, and the pressure on Eddie Howe continues to mount.

Newcastle are in a tricky situation. And Arsenal have no choice but to pile on their misery, going for four wins in the last four meetings.

Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz are all back fit, and Arteta has been able to rely on them.

Bukayo Saka and Ricardo Calafiori will also make the matchday squad for the Newcastle game and may get some minutes but Jurrien Timber will likely miss out.

Even without Timber and Mikel Merino, Arteta can still field a pretty decent side.

He could opt to go with:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard

Madueke, Havertz, Eze

This line-up, set against a Newcastle side who will be without Anthony Gordon and Joelinton, should be more than capable of taking care of business.

A healthy win would be important for Arsenal's title hopes and should set them up perfectly for a strong finish to the season.

Notably, Arsenal's remaining fixtures come against sides in the bottom half, while City face teams in the top half in their run-in.

At their best, Arsenal have it in them to finally get over the line and bring glory back to North London.

The tactical tweak Arteta must make to unlock Arsenal's ruthlessness

By Danong 

Last summer, Arsenal secured one of the deadliest strikers in Europe, signing the red-hot Viktor Gyokeres.

The Swede arrived fresh from a brilliant 2024-25 campaign. He scored 54 goals in 52 games. These impressive numbers had Arsenal convinced they had finally solved their goalscoring struggles.

Yet despite his 18 goals in 46 games, some Gooners feel the attack is not performing at the level it should. The frontline is still misfiring, and things have not improved as expected.

So, what do Arsenal need to unlock an efficient attack? The obvious recommendation is for them to sign a dangerous left-winger, and maybe bring in another striker. 

But none of that may work if Mikel Arteta fails to address one fundamental issue: his midfield.

Arteta wants a midfield built around a number six and two eights. But in constructing that unit, he has erred on the defensive side.

When fully fit, Arteta's preferred midfield trio is Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi.

Zubimendi is a natural six, but so is Rice. The Englishman himself once admitted as much to TNT Sports, via the Metro:

"I think my best position is probably as a number 6. My biggest strength is breaking up the play and taking the ball from deep. I do get excited when I play number 8, though. I get to show the other side of my game. I didn't stop running tonight!"

With both Rice and Zubimendi most comfortable as sixes, the tactical solution is clear: Arteta must be bold enough to settle on just one of them in that role.

Playing Rice alongside Zubimendi, without the attacking full-backs that teams like PSG and Bayern Munich have, certainly suffocates Arsenal's creative play. 

But should Arteta commit to one holding midfielder, the Gunners would have fewer creativity issues. This is particularly true if two natural tens were deployed as the eights.

Arsenal's ambition has long been to surpass Manchester City, but in doing so, they have overlooked an obvious tactical set-up. The Rodri–Bernardo Silva–Kevin De Bruyne midfield should have served as the blueprint for the Gunners' rebuild in the post-Granit Xhaka LCM era.

Instead, they have played two defensive midfielders with just Odegaard as the ten. This setup has further suffocated Arsenal's creativity and forced the team to prioritise caution above all else.

Looking at the current squad, Arteta has four defensive midfielders in Rice, Zubimendi, Cristian Norgaard, and Mikel Merino, with just two number tens in Eberechi Eze and Odegaard. The balance is skewed, and it is showing.

Arsenal must reshape their midfield. With their world-class centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, they can play one holding midfielder and two number tens without being exposed defensively.

Reverting to such a system would help this Arsenal side generate more chances. This approach would give them a greater opportunity to win games with the ruthlessness they crave.

It may take time and sacrifice to perfect this tactical approach. But if Arsenal are serious about developing that fear factor, it could be worth it.

Starting this player, how to bypass the City block and the attitude needed to win

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has equated the clash with Arsenal as the Premier League 2025-26 final.

Last time the two met, City tactically exposed an injury-plagued Arsenal side, fashioning a 2-0 win that clinched the Carabao Cup.

Much has happened since then; Arsenal have been knocked out of the FA Cup, suffered a defeat to Bournemouth, yet also just did enough to secure a Champions League semi-final spot. 

But all of that is behind them now. Arsenal need to deliver, find their rhythm and keep winning if they want to keep their title hopes alive.

Six points ahead of City, who have played a game less, a win would give Arsenal a comfortable cushion at the top. A defeat to the Manchester Blues, however, would cut the gap to just three points, heaping further pressure on the boys in red and white, because should City win their game in hand, the two sides would be level on points.

Arsenal have no excuses but to bring their A-game. Injuries, though, will still be a concern.

Bukayo Saka is confirmed to miss the game. Noni Madueke came off with a knock against Sporting CP, though Arteta was hopeful he would be fit. Ricardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard all remain doubtful; even so, given the sheer magnitude of the occasion, Arteta will surely field the strongest side he possibly can.

We could see Arsenal line up as follows:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie 

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Havertz, Trossard

Why Havertz over Gyokeres:

Havertz can drop deep and link up play far more effectively. Gyokeres is a fine finisher, but with Havertz leading the line, Arsenal's attack would be more fluid, creating the space for the wingers to attack. The German could keep the City defence occupied before Gyokeres is introduced from the bench to prey on tired legs.

That said, in the Carabao Cup final, City caused Arsenal problems by exploiting their weakness in playing out from the back, something Bournemouth also capitalised on. 

Starting Havertz would be logical as one option for Raya would be to go long to Havertz. The Arsenal number 10, say Eze, and a winger should move up closer to him and give support moving the team further up the field.

Alternatively Raya could chip balls to either wing as City in their four man press involve their wingers and/or their full backs leaving space behind them. 

If Arteta has found a solution to that vulnerability, City are certainly beatable. However implausible an Arsenal victory may seem after the recent dire performances that have been served. 

Especially if the Arsenal players play with gusto, confidence and belief. 

This statistic augurs well for Arsenal in their game against Sporting

By Danong 

Arsenal are back in action on Wednesday, with the Gunners hosting Portuguese heavyweights Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium.

Yes, the Gunners head into this game with an advantage, a 1-0 lead in the tie, but that is arguably the trickiest lead they could hold in a Champions League knockout clash.

Sporting have reached this stage entirely on merit, and should Arsenal slip, they could easily turn things around and knock them out. Notably, the Primeira Liga outfit have failed to score in just one competitive away game all season.

Arsenal fans simply could not handle a Wednesday night Champions League heartbreak, not after that disappointing Saturday defeat, losing 2-1 to Bournemouth.

Mikel Arteta and his side will need to bring their A-game, yet doing so will be made harder by the absence of several key players.

A disappointing update from Arsenal's training ground confirms that Declan Rice was nowhere to be seen in their latest training session.

The Englishman joins a growing absentee list that already includes Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, and Riccardo Calafiori.

Even so, Arteta can still field a strong side that should be capable of handling Sporting.

That team could look like this:

Raya

White, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly

Nørgaard, Zubimendi, Eze

Madueke, Gyökeres, Martinelli.

It may not be the strongest line-up Arteta has put out, but it should carry more than enough quality to deal with a Sporting side that will be without key men Ivan Fresneda and Luís Guilherme.

Worth noting, however, is that their captain, Morten Hjulmand, returns for this game after missing the first leg through suspension.

What augurs well fir Arsenal is that Sporting have got a bad record in Europe when they lost the first tie losing 13 of 14 such ties. 

Three Arsenal wins and three draws, Sporting have never managed to beat the Gunners (over 90 minutes and extra time) and Wednesday is unlikely to be the day that changes.

Arsenal aim to lay St Mary's ghosts to rest with this patched-up line-up

 By Danong 

Arsenal return to action with a quarter-final FA Cup clash against Southampton at St Mary’s Stadium.  

St Mary’s has long proved a difficult ground for the Gunners. In their last five visits, they have managed just one victory, a frustrating record given that, on paper, this is a fixture where Arsenal should be odds-on favourites.  

Even so, while Arsenal are expected to prevail tonight, they will need to bring their A-game.  

Southampton arrive unbeaten in 14 matches, enjoying their best run of form in recent memory, and they will be ready to put up a fight. Arsenal, therefore, must be prepared for everything thrown their way.  

Fingers crossed, most of our key players are fit, especially after several withdrew from international duty with injury concerns.  

From Mikel Arteta’s Friday press conference:  

- Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard are in contention. 

- Eberechi Eze and Piero Hincapie are ruled out with no timeline for return.

- Noni Madueke is sidelined, though expected back within days.  

Ideally, Arteta should field this line-up:  

Kepa  

Ben White, Mosquera, Gabriel, Lewis Skelly  

Norgaard, Havertz, Odegaard 

Dowman, Gyokeres, Martinelli  

Despite injuries forcing notable absences, Arsenal should still have enough to dispatch Southampton on Saturday night and book their place in the semi-finals, one step closer to clinching a record 15th FA Cup trophy.  

Losing the Carabao Cup to Manchester City before the break may have ended hopes of a quadruple, but the treble dream remains alive. Victory here would edge Arsenal closer to that ambition.  

Securing the FA Cup, Premier League, and Champions League would be a fitting and deserved way for Arsenal to crown this season. 

This Arsenal player set to play pivotal role in the League Cup final

By Danong 

Tonight, Arsenal could be one step closer to making this a historic season. All they have to do is beat Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, adding the League Cup to the trophy cabinet as they also look to capture the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Champions League. Lifting the famous quadruple however unlikely that may prove to be. 

For the Gunners, games against City are rarely straightforward, yet they have not lost this fixture since 2023, going unbeaten in six games across all competitions.

Of those six, however, Arsenal have managed just two consecutive wins.

Tonight, they ought to make it three.

Martin Odegaard, Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino were all expected to miss out through injury. Yet when pressed on whether captain Odegaard and Timber could return this weekend, Arteta replied: "Yeah, we have another session, let's see."

Fingers crossed the two are available as Arsenal need to be at their strongest to dismantle the Cityzens.

All that said, here is how Arsenal are likely to line up:

Kepa

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard

If it all clicks, this side should have everything needed to take City apart.

A City side that has kept just one clean sheet in their last eight away fixtures, and that is not the half of it. They have also conceded six first-half goals across their last four games.

Eberechi Eze is a player well worth watching in this fixture. He scored for Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final last year and, over his last nine games, has racked up six goal contributions: four goals and two assists. 

Tonight, he could yet prove to be Arsenal's decisive player.

How Arteta's clever tweaks could outwit Hurzelar's Brighton

 By Danong 

After the 2-1 London derby victory over Chelsea, every Arsenal fan was left thinking the same thing: nine games to go, and we are champions.

Now, after today's clash with Brighton at the American Express Stadium, a win would bring that dream even closer; just eight games away from being crowned English champions.

Arsenal go to this clash against the Seagulls brimming with confidence. Unbeaten in nine games across all competitions, seven wins and two draws, many simply cannot fathom that Brighton, who have failed to beat them in five successive meetings, will have what it takes to stop them this time around.

The last time the two sides squared off, Arsenal edged it 2-1, with Georginio Rutter's unfortunate own goal handing the North Londoners all three points. This time, however, Arsenal will not be looking for any such favours; they will be out to win fair and square.

With a near-full squad at his disposal, save for the injured Mikel Merino and a doubt hanging over Ben White, Arteta can afford to go ruthless with his selection. 

Martin Zubimendi has not been at his best of late. The Spaniard has struggled particularly with ball progression, repeatedly going missing in games despite being the player tasked with linking defence and attack.

Fatigue may well be a factor, and a spell on the bench could be exactly what he needs to rediscover his mojo. In his place, the experienced Christian Norgaard could step in and breathe new life into Arteta's engine room.

Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard did not have the best of evenings in the win over Chelsea. At one point, he appeared more influential than Gabriel Martinelli, yet perhaps now is the right moment to hand the Samba Star his opportunity, a chance to fire this Arsenal side towards league glory.

Beyond those two changes, this Arsenal line-up looks more than capable of taking Brighton apart. And one player worth keeping a close eye on is Timber. The Dutchman has been in scintillating form, directly contributing to goals in each of the last two matches with both a strike and an assist to his name.

Raya

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Norgaard, Rice, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli

The dilemma of choosing between Eze and Odegaard is a dilemma of which strategy to follow against Chelsea

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

It is another London derby day, with the capital's heavyweights Arsenal and Chelsea renewing their rivalry at the Emirates Stadium.

Chelsea are fighting for a top-five slot, embroiled in a tough battle with Aston Villa, Liverpool and Manchester United. Arsenal, meanwhile, are desperate not to drop any more points at the summit, with Manchester City breathing down their neck.

That said, the Gunners remain unbeaten in 11 games across all competitions in this fixture and Chelsea have not beaten us since August 2021. 

Since taking over not so long ago, Rosenior has given this Chelsea side a genuine new lease of life. They look rejuvenated and have gone unbeaten in their last six league outings. 

Even so, for all their recent resilience in the league, they have already fallen to Arsenal twice this calendar year, the Gunners knocking them out of the Carabao Cup semi-finals after beating them home and away.

Mikel Arteta will be hoping to make it three from three against Rosenior, though to do so, the Spanish tactician must manage without some key personnel.

Injured Mikel Merino is of course out of this one whilst Kai Havertz and Max Dowman, who are back from injury, could yet feature, but neither is likely to be risked.

Even so, Arteta can still assemble a formidable line-up, and could well field this team:

Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard

The inclusion of Eze will point towards a more aggressive and full of tempo start for Arsenal in the game as it transpired at Tottenham last time out.

Odegaard will likely come on later in the game to instil more control.

Chelsea, for their part, go to north London without several key figures of their own; Wesley Fofana, Estevao and Marc Cucurella are all absent, and will certainly need a strong performance and a measure of fortune to contain this Arsenal side.

All that said, Viktor Gyokeres is undoubtedly the player to watch. In the kind of form he is currently in (a brace against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend) taking him to five goals since the end of January, Chelsea's defenders face a stern examination at the Emirates.

Arsenal must overcome the difficulty that a Rob Edwards side poses

By Danong 

Arsenal return to action tonight as they travel to Molineux to face Wolverhampton Wanderers.  

The Wanderers are winless in their last six outings.  

Fresh from a 1‑1 draw with Brentford, Arsenal will be intent on seizing all three points. They cannot afford to loosen their grip on the title race, so expect them to go early for the kill in this fixture.  

Even so, the Gunners must cope without Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard who are sidelined through injury.  

There is, however, a significant boost: Ricardo Calafiori and Ben White are fit again and available for selection.  

With just one defeat in their last 11 Premier League matches (seven wins and three draws), the North Londoners are in formidable form.  

It is true however that Arsenal have struggled every time they faced a Rob Edwards side, remember that 4-3 away win at Luton and that game at the Emirates where we needed two own goals to get the better of them?

Arteta, keen to get the better again of a Rob Edwards’ side, could turn to this line‑up:  

Raya

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie 

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Gyokeres, Trossard 

The headline talking point is Noni Madueke starting ahead of Bukayo Saka. 

While Saka, fresh from signing a new deal, would have been a popular choice, Madueke is in goal scoring form and Arteta may fancy him to shine again, while keeping Saka fresh for the looming North London derby.  

Arsenal have won nine straight against Wolves, and tonight they will aim to make it ten. A win would see them seven points clear of second-place Manchester City, though having played one more game, a cushion that should instil confidence as the Premier League run‑in sets in. 

The alternative line up to win at Brentford if the returning players do not make it

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Arsenal return to action with a short trip across London to the G-Tech Community Stadium, where they face Brentford.  

Having watched Manchester City ruthlessly dispatch Fulham 3-0 on Wednesday night, the Gunners head into this clash highly motivated to secure all three points. 

For Mikel Arteta and his side, nothing less than victory will do as they look to re-establish their six-point cushion at the top of the Premier League table.  

History favours Arsenal in this fixture. In the last five meetings, the league leaders have claimed four wins and drawn the other, a record they will be eager to extend with another convincing performance tonight.  

However, Arteta must do so without some of his key players. Mikel Merino remains sidelined, Kai Havertz is out with a muscular issue. 

In addition Leandro Trossard is nursing a cramp and Bukayo Saka remains a doubt. The possible return of Martin Ødegaard, though, may offer a significant boost.

However if the above players are only ready to be on the bench then I will expect Arteta to still field a formidable line-up and he could do it if he goes with:  

Raya  

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Gyökeres, Martinelli  

On paper, this XI should have enough to deal with the Bees, who have been quietly impressive under Keith Andrews.  

However if the returning players are ready to start then the starting line up will be fantastic:

Raya  

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard 

Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard 

Seventh in the table, Brentford have defied expectations. Many anticipated they would struggle following the departures of manager Thomas Frank and key players Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo.

Yet, Andrews, once the club’s set-piece coach, has inspired a resurgence. With Igor Thiago leading the line, Brentford have rediscovered their bite, recently stunning fellow title contenders Aston Villa.  

That result serves as a timely warning: Arsenal must bring their A-game to avoid any slip-ups that could embolden City in the title race.

Ruthlessness is what counts in a title race. The line up to achieve it.

By Danong 

After punching their way into the Carabao Cup final, set for 22nd March against Manchester City, by beating Chelsea home and away in the two‑legged semi‑finals, Arsenal are back in action this afternoon.  

The Gunners host Premier League newcomers who have stunned many by refusing to be the league’s punching bag. Instead, they’ve been punching way above their weight, establishing themselves as one of the most formidable sides this season.  

The Black Cats’ performances under Regis Le Bris have been nothing short of impressive, losing only six times with nine wins and nine draws.

Recent history favours the North Londoners. In the last five meetings, Arsenal have remained unbeaten, winning three and drawing two. Yet their most recent clash, a 2‑2 draw at the Stadium of Light, showed Sunderland’s mettle and their ability to push Arsenal to the limit.  

Nevertheless, with eyes firmly on the prize, these are the fixtures Mikel Arteta’s men must win.Ruthlessness, not resilience, is what counts in the title race.  

Arteta should go all out with a strong line‑up:  

Raya  

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Zubimendi, Rice, Ødegaard  

Saka, Havertz, Trossard  

If Timber and Saka need a rest or are not ready which may be likely, then no problem, White and Madueke will come in seamlessly! 

Also, if as seems possible Odegaard may not start, then Arteta may well go with Eze again as we may need as much creativeness and ingenuity to break down a likely low block.

Raya  

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Havertz, Trossard  

The biggest talking point is Havertz leading the line. It would be a ruthless call to drop Viktor Gyokeres, but the German deserves his chance.

Gabriel Jesus and Gyokeres have both had opportunities to spearhead the attack, but neither has truly hit top form. Havertz, with his versatility and composure, could yet prove Arsenal’s secret weapon in the title race.  

A victory today would temporarily send Arsenal nine points clear of Manchester City. With City facing Liverpool on Sunday evening, a Reds win could hand Arteta’s side a crucial advantage.  

For Arsenal, the message is simple: 

No slip‑ups, no excuses, just three points and momentum towards the crown.

Surprise inclusion in the starting 11?

By Danong 

Arsenal return to action tonight as they host Chelsea in the second leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals.  

Having edged the first leg 3-2 at Stamford Bridge, the Gunners now have every reason to believe they can finish the job and secure their place in the final.  

Fresh from a ruthless 4-0 demolition of Leeds, Mikel Arteta had the luxury of an almost full squad to choose from, save for Mikel Merino and teenage prospect Max Dowman. Yet, in the warm-up for that game, Bukayo Saka picked up an untimely knock.  

The star boy now joins Merino and Dowman on the list of expected absentees against Chelsea. 

Fortunately for Arsenal, Noni Madueke stepped in seamlessly at Elland Road, delivering a masterclass with both an assist and a goal. 

Arteta will be hoping the winger can carry that momentum into tonight’s clash, helping his side dispatch their London rivals and book a place in the Carabao Cup final.  

Still, Madueke cannot shoulder the burden alone. Arteta would be wise to go strong with his selection, fielding a line-up such as:  

Kepa  

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Norgaard, Rice, Odegaard  

Madueke, Havertz, Martinelli  

Zubimendi can be rested as he has played a lot of games. He can come in to help shore up if needed.

With potential game-changers waiting on the bench, this Arsenal side should prove too powerful for Liam Rosenior’s side.

Even so, Arsenal will relish the chance to dispatch Chelsea at their strongest, underlining their intent to march into the final.

With everyone finally fit Arsenal ready to return to winning ways

By Danong 

Arsenal are back in action this Saturday afternoon, making the long trip to Elland Road to take on Leeds United.  

After that disappointing 3-2 defeat to Manchester United last weekend, the Gunners responded by edging Kairat Almaty 3-2 in a midweek Champions League clash. Yet the real bounce back will come if they can overcome Leeds, returning to winning ways in the Premier League after failing to secure victory in their last three league games.  

Leeds are one of those clubs Arsenal should be dispatching. Earlier in the season, the Gunners put five past them.

However, this Leeds side turned a corner in early December and are now on a run of just one defeat in ten games. They are determined to sustain that momentum and avoid slipping back into the Championship, which makes them a tricky opponent now. 

Manager Mikel Arteta and his players will therefore need to bring their A‑game if they are to dispatch The Whites, especially at Elland Road.  

Having welcomed Ricardo Calafiori and Kai Havertz back against Kairat, Arteta now has a strong squad to choose from. He has the leverage to field his best possible line‑up, which may look like:  

Raya  

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard  

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard  

If Calafiori is fit after playing the first half against Kairat on his return from injury, he surely needs to start. There is something special about the way the Italian activates this Arsenal team; as an unorthodox playmaker, he weaponises their attack.  

Equally, it is encouraging to see Gyokeres rediscover his goalscoring mojo. Scoring and assisting on Wednesday night should give him the lift he needs to return to his prolific best. In some sort of dry spell, Arsenal need him to be firing on all cylinders to propel them towards glory, just as was expected when he arrived.  

Meanwhile, Kai Havertz’s season arguably starts now. He both assisted and scored against Kairat, and hopefully that impact was a glimpse of what he can consistently deliver. The German could yet prove to be the lift the North Londoners need to quench their thirst for league success and he may well come off the bench for this game. 

Arteta may spring a surprise in his team selection vs United

 By Danong 

In arguably the biggest clash of the weekend, Arsenal welcome Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium.  

Fresh from a famous derby‑day victory over City, United are buoyed by a full week’s rest and no European commitments. They arrive as perhaps the trickiest United side Arsenal have faced in recent times.  

Yet the Gunners approach this fixture emboldened by a 12‑match unbeaten run. More telling, they are undefeated against the Red Devils in their last six meetings. This record suggests Arsenal have come to dominate this contest.  

Consequently, Arsenal should feel less pressure going into the game. The burden lies squarely on United, who, under caretaker head coach Michael Carrick, are striving to salvage what has been a shaky season.  

United are expected to be without Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee, though they should still field a competitive squad. Arsenal, meanwhile, welcome back Piero Hincapie and Ricardo Calafiori, but will probably be deprived of Kai Havertz and Max Dowman.  

With Mikel Arteta having his best options for this game, he should deploy his most formidable line‑up to outwit Carrick and extend Arsenal’s fine run, ensuring they remain unbeaten at the Emirates. At home, the Gunners have recorded 13 wins and three draws.  

Probable line‑up:  

 -Raya  

- Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori  

- Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard  

- Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard  

Starting Calafiori immediately may spark debate, yet if fit, he should be trusted from the outset. The unorthodox left‑back has emerged as a playmaker of sorts, holding the key to Arsenal’s success this season.  

Indeed, the last 18 matchdays have shown he is irreplaceable; not even Hincapie can replicate his influence. That is why Calafiori deserves to start straight away.  

But if he is not yet ready then either White will come in and Timber move to left back or don't be surprised if MLS starts as he had a very good game in Italy. Arteta may wish to have a player who can invert and bring the ball forward. 

This game is also a stage for Viktor Gyökeres to rise to the occasion and demonstrate to United what they missed by failing to sign a genuine No.9.  

Carrick may attempt to catch Arsenal off guard with tactical surprises, but if the Gunners impose their game, they should have enough to secure a famous win this weekend.

The Arsenal XI ready to shock Inter

By Danong 

Champions League football returns, and Arsenal are back in the thick of it as they travel to Milan to face Inter at the iconic San Siro.  

The Gunners will be determined to sustain their brilliance in Europe’s premier competition. Having played six matches, they boast a flawless record of six wins, conceding just one goal.  

Ahead of this clash with Inter, Arsenal have already toppled giants such as Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid. With those scalps under their belt, the boys in red and white should have all the motivation required to get the job done.  

Even so, some voices have urged Mikel Arteta to rest key players, mindful of the looming clash with Manchester United. Yet it seems unlikely the Spaniard will sacrifice momentum in this fixture. Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori remain sidelined through injury, but Arsenal still travel with a strong squad.  

Indeed, Arteta is expected to go full strength, and Gooners should not be surprised if he fields this line-up:

Raya  

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly  

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard  

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard  

That selection arguably represents Arsenal at their most formidable.  

History between the sides suggests a finely balanced contest: in their last four meetings, Arsenal have won twice and lost twice. Inter arrive unbeaten in eight games, while Arsenal are undefeated in eleven. All signs point to a mouth-watering clash.  

Ultimately, the Gunners will hope to leave the San Siro with all three points, further cementing their place at the summit of the Champions League table  and cementing their progress in the next round.

Arteta to outwit Rosenior with this refreshed Arsenal line‑up

 By Danong

Tonight, Arsenal are back in action as they make the short trip across West London to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals.  

Fresh from dismantling Portsmouth on their own turf with a commanding 4-1 victory in the FA Cup third round, the Gunners will be eager to carry that ruthless goalscoring touch into this clash.  

Chelsea, meanwhile, arrive with the energy of a new-manager bounce. Liam Rosenior kicked off his tenure in emphatic fashion on Saturday, overseeing a thumping 5-1 win over Charlton.  

As fired up as both sides are heading into this fixture, the outcome will ultimately be decided on the pitch. And with Arsenal’s boss Mikel Arteta determined to end the club’s trophy drought, he has little excuse but to field a strong side tonight.  

It looks like Piero Hincapié and Ricardo Calafiori will be out. Saliba and Trossard are also doubtful. Having rested most of his other key stars in the FA Cup triumph, he should be able to field a competitive line-up:  

Raya  
Timber, Nørgaard, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly  
Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard  
Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli

Nørgaard showed that when he played as a central defender he put in a quite adequate performance.

On the other hand MLS looked rusty and devoid of confidence in his last two appearances. He will have to raise his game if Arsenal are to get a result tonight to take back to the Emirates.

Chelsea, for their part, will be boosted by the return of Marc Cucurella from suspension, though they may still be without Reece James and Cole Palmer.  

With Arsenal unbeaten in their last nine meetings against Chelsea, this tie could be monumental. Victory would mark a tenth consecutive game without defeat against their London rivals, further cementing the Gunners’ dominance as the undisputed Kings of London.

Arsenal set to humble Liverpool at the Emirates with this superb line-up

By Danong 

Arsenal, buoyed by five wins on the bounce, will be eager to extend their sparkling festive run in the Premier League when they welcome Liverpool to the Emirates on Thursday night.  

Beyond the sheer desire to sustain their momentum, the Gunners carry an added incentive into this clash.

It was Liverpool who first punctured Arsenal’s earlier in the season, one of only two sides to do so, the other being Aston Villa.

That memory alone ensures Arsenal approach this fixture with fire in their veins.  

Gabriel Magalhaes’ return has proved a timely boost, not only reinforcing the defence but also rekindling his instinct for decisive goals. 

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus has seized his opportunities with flashes of brilliance that underline his attacking threat.

As for Kai Havertz, he could well come into contention against Liverpool, thereby injecting yet another dimension into Arteta’s tactical options.

With that said, here is how Mikel Arteta might line up to outmanoeuvre Arne Slot’s Liverpool (who are unbeaten in seven):  

Predicted XI  

Raya

Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapié

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard 

Saka, Gyökeres, Trossard  

From the bench, Arteta could introduce Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze, and perhaps Jesus, arguably the strongest "finishers" Arsenal can summon on the night.  

In a boost to Arsenal, Liverpool’s striking options, however, appear far less certain. Hugo Ekitike remains a doubt, while Alexander Isak is already sidelined.  

Arsenal’s form, their desire for vengeance, and Liverpool’s attacking absences, with Salah also unavailable, may well tilt the balance in the Gunners’ favour, leaving them well poised to seize a statement victory over the reigning champions.

Are Manchester City bottling it?

 By 1970s Gooner 

Man City have dropped 4 points in their last two games. Have they got the jitters?

Against Sunderland they couldn’t score against a very determined opponent. But in the same fixture Arsenal went one better. They were leading 2 1 and were pegged back with virtually the last kick of the game.

Tonight City were leading 1 0 but they allowed Chelsea to create chances and finally equalise in the last minute.

Now if it was Arsenal doing this then we would be called bottlers.

Are Man City bottling it?