In a match that had hoped to mean nothing now could mean everything regarding Arsenal’s hopes in both the Europa League and Premier League. That might sound somewhat hyperbolic but considering the outcome of this clash could see Arsenal play both a Champions League drop-out and face two additional fixtures to their schedule.
All that Arsenal need to do is win at home against bottom-of-the-group FC Zurich. The challenge for Mikel Arteta, more so than their actual opponents, is fielding a squad that can do the job but rest players enough ahead of a pivotal away trip to Stamford Bridge and Chelsea on Sunday.
Zurich have their own motivation too. Having surprisingly beaten Bodo/Glimt, they know that a result at the Emirates could see them squeeze into third and offer them further European competition next year in the form of the UEFA Conference League.
READ MORE: Every word Mikel Arteta said on Arsenal vs FC Zurich, Saka injury, Barcelona links and Chelsea
Matt Turner has recovered from the tight groin that left him missing the last two Arsenal matches as his Europa stand-in Aaron Ramsdale endured a difficult match in Eindhoven. The England international failed to punch away a corner kick that resulted in PSV’s second goal to win the clash.
In defence, having come on against Nottingham Forest, Cedric Soares is in line to make his first start of the season, giving Ben White a rest after his battling display on Sunday. He will likely be joined again by European regular Rob Holding alongside Gabriel Magalhaes.
At left-back Kieran Tierney is sure to be the starter with Takehiro Tomiyasu being prepared for yet another masterclass on the Arsenal left against another ‘Big Six’ side on Sunday. The unit has been at the club together for some time and so should not feel uncomfortable.
In midfield, Mohamed Elneny could bring the much-needed depth of quality needed to help rest Thomas Partey. The Egyptian has returned to training early and could be in line for his first start since the 2-1 win over Fulham.
With Granit Xhaka suspended and Elneny in, Albert Sambi Lokonga can therefore play in his more natural number eight position providing a big opportunity for the Belgian to showcase his true talent. Ahead of them, Fabio Vieira will take up his typical rotation spot in place of Martin Odegaard.
Up top, Gabriel Jesus could be given the chance to get a greatly desired goal before the Chelsea match and be supported by Eddie Nketiah and the now free-scoring Reiss Nelson. At home, this should be a team which provides plenty of quality to get the job done against the Swiss champions.
Starting XI: Ramsdale; Cedric; Holding; Gabriel; Tierney; Elneny; Lokonga; Vieira; Nelson; Nketiah; Jesus
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