Arsenal is gearing up for a crucial Premier League clash against Bournemouth and manager Mikel Arteta faces a selection dilemma due to an array of injuries and recovery concerns. The North London side is coming off a win against Brentford in the Carabao Cup but Arteta will have to dig deep into his squad to field a competitive lineup this Saturday.
Goalkeeper & Defenders
David Raya: While Aaron Ramsdale delivered an impressive performance against Brentford, Arteta is likely to stick with Raya as his number one goalkeeper for the time being.
Ben White: White inclusion on Wednesday may have been a surprise but he emerged unscathed and is expected to retain his spot on the right flank.
Takehiro Tomiyasu: With William Saliba uncertain due to injury Tomiyasu, who earned the Man of the Match award in the midweek fixture deserves a start after excelling in the heart of Arsenal defense.
Gabriel: The Brazilian has had a solid start to the season and is a reliable choice to continue in the lineup.
Oleksandr Zinchenko: Zinchenko who has been playing in an inverted role will likely continue in his position. The question remains whether he can recapture his early-season form.
Midfielders
Jorginho: With Declan Rice and Thomas Partey unavailable Arteta will opt for Jorginho to anchor the midfield. It will mark the Italian first Premier League start this season.
Kai Havertz: Emile Smith Rowe's fitness concerns might see him start on the bench with Havertz hoping to make an impact and ignite his Arsenal career.
Martin Odegaard: After a subdued performance in the North London Derby Odegaard will be eager to silence his critics this weekend.
Forwards
Reiss Nelson: With Bukayo Saka unlikely to be risked Nelson is set to make his first Premier League start since 2020. The midweek match winner will aim to replicate his success against Bournemouth.
Eddie Nketiah: Despite receiving criticism for his recent performance Nketiah has been a reliable option when called upon making him a likely starter.
Gabriel Jesus: Arteta experimented with Jesus in a wider role last week but there is room for improvement in terms of rotation and interchange. Fans may want to see Jesus play a more central role against Bournemouth.
Arsenal's upcoming clash with Bournemouth presents an opportunity for fringe players to step up due to injuries and recovery concerns plaguing the squad. Arteta's lineup decisions will be crucial in maintaining Arsenal's momentum in the Premier League.