Arsenal Predicted XI vs Manchester United: Gyökeres & 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 Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi.
Team news
Arteta delivered a largely positive update on his squad’s 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:
- “I believe Trossard is feeling much better. He should be able to train again tomorrow, and if that happens, he will be fit.”
- On Gyökeres: “He’s improving every day. He hasn’t trained extensively with us, but the feedback has been very positive.”
- On Zubimendi: “He has integrated excellently. He’s made a significant impact on the team already. I’m very pleased.”
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 Magalhães 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 Ødegaard to operate higher up as the creative hub.
- Attack: On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli provide pace and penetration, with Gyökeres expected to lead the line on his Arsenal debut.
Predicted Arsenal XI
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Ødegaard, Martinelli; Gyökeres
