After their victory over Tottenham last Sunday, Arsenal faces another significant challenge as they travel to take on title rivals Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium this weekend.
Mikel Arteta had to navigate the North London Derby without key players Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in midfield. However, Rice is expected to return after serving a one-match suspension, while Odegaard’s fitness is uncertain. The Norwegian’s ankle injury initially appeared serious, but there are indications he might have been close to returning for the derby.
### How Arsenal Might Line Up Against Manchester City
Unless Arteta surprises everyone, Rice is likely to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup, possibly replacing either Thomas Partey or Jorginho. If Odegaard is unavailable, Kai Havertz will probably feature in midfield once again.
**Predicted Arsenal Lineup:** Raya; Saliba, Gabriel, White, Timber; Rice, Partey, Havertz; Martinelli, Trossard, Saka.
This lineup remains strong for the Gunners, although they would prefer to have Odegaard’s creativity for such an important match. Nonetheless, Havertz’s physicality and work rate could be beneficial, especially in a game where they might not dominate possession.
### Manchester City’s Expected XI Against Arsenal
Both teams have Champions League matches midweek, but City is better equipped to rotate their squad than Arsenal. They will aim to field their strongest 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.
Determining City’s optimal lineup can be challenging, as there’s always the possibility for key players like Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan to feature, and Pep Guardiola is known for making tactical adjustments in big matches.
