Arsenal’s Lineup Against Fulham: Team News and Expected XI
Saka Set for Return as Arsenal Aims to Maintain Momentum
As the Premier League enters a crucial phase, Arsenal is set to receive a significant boost ahead of their encounter with Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening.
Star winger Bukayo Saka is on the verge of making his first appearance since December after recovering from a hamstring injury that required surgery. The England international sustained the injury during Arsenal’s clash with Crystal Palace on December 21, leaving fans anxious about his absence.
After three months on the sidelines, manager Mikel Arteta is preparing to reintegrate Saka into the squad. Speaking on Monday, Arteta confirmed, “Bukayo is ready. We’ve taken all necessary precautions. Now it’s about managing his game time wisely. He’s eager to play, and we’ve had to control his enthusiasm.”
Saka’s return is timely as Arsenal continues to push for success in both domestic and European competitions. With a Champions League clash against Real Madrid approaching, this match against Fulham could serve as a confidence booster.
If Saka is included in the starting lineup, promising youngster Ethan Nwaneri, who recently impressed with a goal for England’s U-21 team, will likely return to the bench. This is not a demotion but rather a strategic decision in his development amid rising expectations.
Injury Woes Continue for Arsenal
Arsenal’s injury problems have worsened following the international break. Defender Riccardo Calafiori sustained a knee injury during Italy’s Nations League quarter-final against Germany. Arteta commented, “It’s unfortunate, but it could have been worse. We hope he’ll be out for only a few weeks, but we’ll monitor his progress.”
Despite Jurrien Timber’s return from illness, Arsenal remains without Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Kai Havertz, all ruled out for the rest of the season. Their absence limits Arteta’s options, placing more responsibility on Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Ødegaard, and Declan Rice.
Tactical Setup and Predicted Lineup
With Timber fit and Saka poised to start, Arteta may deploy a 4-3-3 formation. David Raya is expected to remain in goal, with Timber and Amario Lewis-Skelly in the full-back positions, while William Saliba and Gabriel anchor the defense.
Midfield could see Thomas Partey as the holding player, alongside Rice and Ødegaard. Up front, Saka, Martinelli, and Mikel Merino could form the attacking trio.
Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Partey, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Merino, Martinelli.
Unavailable: Calafiori, Jesus, Tomiyasu, Havertz.
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