BREAKING NEWS: Raheem Sterling makes his debut in a 4-3-3 formation. Potential Arsenal lineup against Man City reveals Arteta’s bold decision to bench Martinelli for the new signing.

Arsenal is preparing for a significant Premier League clash against Manchester City this Sunday. After a goalless draw with Atalanta in their midweek Champions League match, they emerged without new injury concerns, which is a relief for manager Mikel Arteta.

In a press conference on Friday, Arteta confirmed there were no fresh fitness worries following their recovery sessions. However, the team will still be without five key players, including Kieran Tierney, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Takehiro Tomiyasu due to injuries.

The absence of captain Martin Odegaard is particularly concerning, as Arteta confirmed the midfielder will miss an extended period due to an ankle injury he picked up during international duty with Norway. In Odegaard’s place, Kai Havertz stepped into the midfield against Atalanta and is expected to do the same against Manchester City. Fortunately for Arsenal, Declan Rice, who was suspended for the North London derby against Tottenham, will be back to strengthen the midfield.

Arteta faces some challenging decisions regarding his starting lineup, especially in attack. During the Atalanta match, Thomas Partey struggled and conceded a penalty, which Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya saved brilliantly.

Partey was later substituted for Jorginho, sparking speculation about who will start in the midfield for the upcoming match. Additionally, Gabriel Jesus had a subdued performance and was replaced by Leandro Trossard before the hour mark. Arteta might consider giving Trossard a starting role against Manchester City.

In defense, Arsenal’s backline has been solid, keeping a clean sheet in Italy, and is likely to remain unchanged for the fifth consecutive game. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are expected to continue on the wings, while Trossard may lead the attack.

The predicted Arsenal lineup follows a 4-3-3 formation with Raya in goal, White, Saliba, Gabriel, and Timber in defense, and a midfield trio of Havertz, Partey, and Rice. The attack will likely feature Saka, Trossard, and Martinelli.

Arsenal’s full squad for the match includes: Neto, Raya; Calafiori, Gabriel, Heaven, Kiwior, Saliba, Timber, White; Havertz, Jorginho, Lewis-Skelly, Nwaneri, Partey, Rice; Jesus, Martinelli, Saka, Sterling, and Trossard. The match will be officiated by Michael Oliver.

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