Arsenal are set to begin their season this Sunday as they take on Manchester City in the FA Community Shield at 15:00 UK time at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Wales, which replaces Wembley Stadium as the host of the English season’s curtain raiser.
Mikel Arteta is expected to field a strong side despite the relatively lower stature of the Community Shield from a silverware perspective, and here is a look at how the Gunners might look like for their season opener.
Goalkeeper – David Raya played one half against Como in Arsenal’s last friendly and could replace Kepa Arrizabalaga in between the sticks for the fixture versus Manchester City.
Defenders – With Jurrien Timber still to attain full fitness after his injury this summer, Ben White could start as the right back for Arsenal with Piero Hincapie expected to remain on the left side of the back four. Gabriel Magalhaes may continue to be the central defender with Cristhian Mosquera likely to partner with the Brazilian international.
Guimaraes debuts for the Gunners versus City
Midfielders – Declan Rice is not expected to be available after participating in the latter stages of the World Cup and off the back of a very demanding campaign last year, so £75 million summer signing Bruno Guimaraes might make his official debut in the double pivot in midfield for Arsenal. Mikel Merino, who played some pre-season minutes in the previous match could partner with the former Newcastle United captain.
Martin Odegaard, meanwhile, might be employed as the attacking midfielder. Noni Madueke could start on the right flank ahead of Max Dowman as Bukayo Saka also awaits a return to full fitness since the World Cup. Gabriel Martinelli might play on the left flank after informing Arsenal that he does not want to join Galatasaray.
Forward – Viktor Gyokeres could lead the line for Arsenal ahead of Gabriel Jesus.
Here is how the defending Premier League champions are expected to look on paper.
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