Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is set to field strong line-ups throughout the Europa League campaign as he eyes a return to the UEFA Champions League.
The Gunners' perfect start to the new season ended on Sunday with a first defeat coming against Manchester United at Old Trafford. Arsenal have a few injury concerns to deal with as the Europa League begins with Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny and Emile Smith Rowe all doubts ahead of the game against FC Zurich.
The north London outfit return to European action on Thursday with their last appearance in the Europa League coming back in the 2020/21 season when they were knocked out of the semi-finals. Arteta is targeting a Champions League return with a strong run in the Europa League this term, despite the Gunners looking strong early on for a top four finish.
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The Arsenal boss is set to make changes to his side for the game against Zurich, with summer signing Fabio Vieira potentially being handed his first start after coming on as a substitute against United. With Partey, Elneny, Smith Rowe and Bukayo Saka all doubts ahead of the Europa League opener, it could be a chance for Arteta to get a look at some players further down the pecking order after an intense start to the season.
After failing to secure a deal for Douglas Luiz on Deadline Day, along with technical director Edu unable to satisfy Arteta's desire for a new winger, young Brazilian Marquinhos may be given a shock start for the Gunners. The Spaniard is determined to win the group, with seemingly tougher tests against PSV Eindhoven and Bodo/Glimt on the horizon.
The incentive of winning a trophy that also seals a position in next season's Champions League is Arsenal's main focus this season, as per The Mirror. The Gunners are set to take a strong squad to Switzerland with the intention of wrapping up qualification from their group as soon as possible.
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