Arsenal's season has got off to a flying start.
After spending in excess of £110 million in the summer transfer window, Mikel Arteta's side are one of just two Premier League teams to win their opening two league fixtures. The Gunners clinched a crucial 2-0 victory away to Crystal Palace a fortnight ago before defeating Leicester City 4-2 at the Emirates Stadium last weekend thanks to a Gabriel Jesus masterclass, with the Brazilian scoring twice and providing a further two assists in a stunning display.
Next up for the north Londoners is newly-promoted Bournemouth, a match that Arsenal hero Paul Merson predicts they will come out on top. Writing for Sportskeeda, Merson said: "Bournemouth started the season with three points against Aston Villa but were blown away by Manchester City last weekend. Arsenal have been one of the most impressive sides so far in the Premier League this season and have played brilliant football against Crystal Palace and Leicester City, so I expect them to go to the Vitality Stadium and make it three wins from three.
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"Mikel Arteta and Co. have conceded chances, but they have been incredibly lively up front and should capitalize on the opportunity to win their first five games before facing Liverpool and Tottenham.
"Gabriel Martinelli is a very good footballer, I just hope the kid can stay fit and get a run of games under his belt. He's an unreal outlet and has got great pace and skill, while he has also shown that he can score this season. If he can stay injury free, I genuinely believe he's a superstar in the making!"
Merson's Prediction: Bournemouth 1-3 Arsenal
Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has also weighed in with his predictions for the highly-anticipated clash, also backing the Gunners to secure all three points. "Arsenal have made a great start to the season, and Gabriel Jesus has made the difference," Sutton told BBC.
"There was a lot of hype about his arrival, and he is backing it up - he is not in my Fantasy team, though, so I hope he doesn't score again this time. I still don't think we should get carried away by what the Gunners are doing, and I still don't think they will challenge for the title this season - but I can understand why their fans are excited.
"If you look at the scoreline, Bournemouth got walloped by Manchester City in their last game, but they actually didn't do that much wrong. They are at home this time and might think this is a game where they can go for it a little bit more. I don't think it will work, but the Cherries will not roll over even if they go behind."
Sutton's prediction: 0-2
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