Arsenal Predicted XI vs Manchester United: GyΓΆkeres & Zubimendi set for debuts, Trossard doubtful
Arsenal kick off their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a blockbuster clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday, and Mikel Arteta is expected to hand competitive debuts to new signings Viktor GyΓΆkeres and Martin Zubimendi.
Team news
Arteta delivered a largely positive update on his squadβs fitness ahead of the opener. Leandro Trossard, who picked up a groin issue during pre-season against Tottenham, faces a late fitness test but has a chance of being involved. Gabriel Jesus, however, remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a long-term knee injury.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Arteta said:
- βI believe Trossard is feeling much better. He should be able to train again tomorrow, and if that happens, he will be fit.β
- On GyΓΆkeres: βHeβs improving every day. He hasnβt trained extensively with us, but the feedback has been very positive.β
- On Zubimendi: βHe has integrated excellently. Heβs made a significant impact on the team already. Iβm very pleased.β
Predicted lineup
Arsenal are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with David Raya starting in goal.
- Defense: Jurrien Timber is set to start at right-back, with William Saliba and Gabriel MagalhΓ£es in central defense. New signing Riccardo Calafiori is tipped to edge out youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly for the left-back spot.
- Midfield: Zubimendi should partner Declan Rice in the double pivot, freeing up captain Martin Γdegaard to operate higher up as the creative hub.
- Attack: On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli provide pace and penetration, with GyΓΆkeres expected to lead the line on his Arsenal debut.
Predicted Arsenal XI
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Γdegaard, Martinelli; GyΓΆkeres
