BREAKING NEWS: “Nwaneri and Gabriel return to the starting lineup (4-2-3-1) to strengthen the attack,” predicted Arsenal’s lineup against Fulham, as Arteta promises to avenge last season’s losses.

Predicted Arsenal Lineup vs Fulham: Nwaneri and Gabriel Bolster the Attack (4-2-3-1)

Arsenal face Fulham this Sunday in a Premier League London derby, with manager Mikel Arteta eager to make amends for last season’s struggles against the Cottagers. Both teams enter the clash riding high on midweek victories: Arsenal defeated Manchester United 2-0, while Fulham triumphed 3-1 over Brighton.

Arsenal’s Recent Performances

Despite a challenging first half against Manchester United’s disciplined defense, Arsenal’s strength in set pieces proved decisive.

Goals from Jurrien Timber and William Saliba sealed their fourth consecutive win, reducing the gap to league leaders Liverpool to seven points. However, Chelsea’s emphatic 5-0 win over Southampton temporarily pushed Arsenal to third in the standings.

Arsenal have excelled in London derbies recently, winning seven of their last eight matches, including an emphatic 5-0 win against West Ham. Still, their previous trip to Craven Cottage ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat, denting their title chase last season.

Fulham’s Strong Run

Fulham, sitting sixth in the table, have showcased attacking flair, scoring in 15 consecutive matches across all competitions since their opening-day draw with Manchester United. Despite their offensive prowess, defensive struggles at home remain an issue, with no clean sheets this season.

Among Fulham’s standout players is Alex Iwobi, a former Arsenal academy star, who scored twice against Brighton. Their record in London derbies has also been solid, remaining unbeaten in their last eight Premier League encounters against other capital clubs.

Team Updates

Arsenal:

Gabriel Magalhaes and Riccardo Calafiori, rested midweek, are expected to return to the starting lineup.

Long-term absentees Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain sidelined.

Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino, recently fit, may feature in the XI.

Fulham:

Reiss Nelson, ineligible to face Arsenal and nursing a hamstring injury, will be absent.

Harrison Reed (knee), Joachim Andersen (calf), and Tom Cairney (suspension) are also unavailable.

Sasa Lukic, back from suspension, will strengthen the midfield.

Predicted Lineups

Fulham (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson; Lukic, Berge; Traore, Smith Rowe, Iwobi; Jimenez

Arsenal (4-2-3-1): Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Rice, Merino; Saka, Havertz, Trossard

With both sides in great form, this derby promises to be a thrilling contest.