Arsenal Predicted XI vs Nottingham Forest as Calafiori Returns and Saka Decision Made

Calafiori and Saka are expected to start for Arsenal against Nottingham Forest. 
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The Gunners are set for fitness boosts over several key players ahead of Forest game.

Arsenal is set to face Nottingham Forest today at the Emirates Stadium, and there’s a lot of excitement around the team news and predicted lineup. With key players returning from injury and some tough decisions to be made.

Riccardo Calafiori is set to make his return after recovering from a knee injury sustained against Shakhtar Donetsk. His presence will bolster Arsenal’s defense, which has been stretched thin due to injuries to other key defenders like Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu.

Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice have also returned to training after missing international duty due to minor injuries. Saka, who picked up a knock at Stamford Bridge, is expected to start, providing a significant boost to Arsenal’s attacking options.

Leandro Trossard is another player who has been declared fit after a minor injury scare while playing for Belgium. His availability adds depth to the forward line, giving Arteta more flexibility in his attacking setup.

Predicted Starting XI

Given the latest updates, here’s how Arsenal might line up against Nottingham Forest:

Goalkeeper: David Raya

Defenders: Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Riccardo Calafiori

Midfielders: Martin Ødegaard (captain), Thomas Partey, Declan Rice

Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli

This lineup reflects a balance between defensive solidity and attacking prowess. The return of Ødegaard in midfield will be crucial for Arsenal’s creativity and control in the game.

Arteta will likely emphasize a high-pressing game to disrupt Nottingham Forest’s build-up play. With Saka and Martinelli on the wings, Arsenal can exploit the flanks and create numerous scoring opportunities. The inclusion of Calafiori at left-back provides additional defensive stability and allows for overlapping runs to support the attack.