Photo credit: Metro
Arsenal and Chelsea are set to clash again in another London derby at the Emirates this afternoon.
The Emirates Stadium is set to host a thrilling London derby as Arsenal takes on Chelsea in a Premier League showdown. Both teams are grappling with injuries but remain determined to secure a crucial victory in this historic rivalry.
Arsenal will be without key players Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Takehiro Tomiyasu, all sidelined due to injuries. Raheem Sterling is also unavailable as he is ineligible to face his parent club. However, Gabriel Martinelli’s return from a hamstring injury offers a glimmer of hope for the Gunners.
Chelsea, on the other hand, faces its own challenges. Nicolas Jackson, Noni Madueke, and Marc Guiu are ruled out with hamstring injuries, while Malo Gusto remains doubtful due to an ankle issue. Despite these setbacks, Cole Palmer and Reece James are expected to return to the starting lineup after recovering from illness.
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal (4-3-3):
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
- Defenders: Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Myles Lewis-Skelly
- Midfielders: Martin Ødegaard, Thomas Partey, Declan Rice
- Forwards: Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli
Injury Updates
Arsenal’s injury list includes long-term absentees like Gabriel Jesus (ACL) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee), while Bukayo Saka is targeting a return after the international break.
This derby is more than just a battle for points; it’s a clash of pride and ambition. Arsenal aims to close the gap at the top of the table, while Chelsea looks to build momentum and strengthen their position in the top four. With both teams dealing with injuries, the match promises to be a test of depth and tactical ingenuity.
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