Mikel Arteta will be eager to get kickstart his Europa League campaign with a win against Zurich. Arsenal would also be keen to defend their position at the top of the League table.
United stopped Arsenal’s rampant winning streak, as the Gunners suffered a 3-1 loss at Old Trafford with Antony and Marcus Rashford smashing goals. Arsenal is currently on top of the table. There is a single point of difference between the Gunners and Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur. Mikel Arteta would be keen to expand the gap.
For now, they travel to Switzerland to face Zurich in their first Europa League match. It is expected that Arteta will be saving key players for the match against Everton on Sunday. Up to eight players from their recent loss to United are expected to rest.
Arsenal vs Zurich: Potential Arsenal Lineup
A possible starting XI is:
Matt Turner, Kieran Tierney, Rob Holding, Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Sambi Lokonga, Fabio Viera, Matt Smith, Marquinhos, Eddie Nketiah. Gabriel Martinelli.
Alternatively, White could get rest, allowing Tomiyasu to play Centre-Back. Cedric Soares could then potentially be at right-back.
Eddie Nketiah shall be likely to lead the line after a series of great performances since the end of last season. New signings Marquinhos and Fabio Viera should also get a chance to show their skills. Meanwhile, US International Goalkeeper Matt Turner should also start to provide competition for First-choice Aaron Ramsdale.
It is possible that Arsenal will use players from Hale End Academy to fill in the remaining team spots. Matt Smith is likely to make his first team debut.
There have been doubts, however, on Emile Smith-Rowe‘s fitness. Gabriel Martinelli’s position on the left wing is not likely to change.
Mikel Arteta would be eager to regain momentum after their last crushing defeat. A victory at Zurich may just help them do that.
