Following their victory over Tottenham last Sunday, Arsenal faces a crucial test as they head to the Etihad Stadium to challenge title rivals Manchester City this weekend.
Mikel Arteta managed the North London Derby without essential midfielders Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice. However, Rice is expected to return after serving a one-match suspension, while Odegaard’s fitness remains uncertain. Initially, his ankle injury seemed severe, but there are signs he may have been close to playing in the derby.
### Possible Arsenal Lineup Against Manchester City
Unless Arteta opts for a surprise, Rice is likely to reclaim his position in the starting eleven, potentially replacing either Thomas Partey or Jorginho. If Odegaard is unavailable, Kai Havertz will likely take on a midfield role again.
**Predicted Arsenal Lineup:** Raya; Saliba, Gabriel, White, Timber; Rice, Partey, Havertz; Martinelli, Trossard, Saka.
This lineup is strong for the Gunners, though they would prefer Odegaard’s creativity for such a vital match. Still, Havertz’s physicality and work rate could be advantageous, especially in a game where they might not control possession.
### Expected Manchester City XI Against Arsenal
Both teams have Champions League matches midweek, but City can rotate their squad more effectively than Arsenal. They will aim to field their best team after resting players like Rodri and Phil Foden against Brentford last weekend.
**Predicted Man City Lineup:** Ederson; Dias, Stones, Walker, Lewis; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, De Bruyne, Savio; Haaland.
Choosing City’s ideal lineup can be tricky, as key players like Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan could also play, and Pep Guardiola is known for making tactical changes in significant matches.
