Eberechi Eze is set to make his first start for Arsenal as manager Mikel Arteta prepares to field a radically different team against Nottingham Forest. An ongoing injury crisis has forced a major tactical rethink for the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium. The line-up will showcase a completely new attacking force and a reconfigured midfield, providing a glimpse into the squad’s depth.
New-Look attack to feature Eze
A significant overhaul of the forward line will see Eze join Gabriel Martinelli and new striker Viktor Gyokeres in a 4-3-3 formation. Eze’s promotion to the starting eleven is the most prominent alteration, as Arteta aims to leverage his creative abilities and skill in carrying the ball.
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This decision stems directly from the absence of Bukayo Saka, who is recovering from a hamstring injury, and Gabriel Jesus, sidelined with an unknown issue. The combination of Martinelli, Gyokeres, and Eze introduces a fresh dynamic, promising a blend of speed, finishing, and imaginative play.
Revamped midfield and defence
Further back, Arsenal is expected to deploy a formidable midfield trio consisting of Declan Rice, Martín Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino. This combination aims to establish control in the middle of the park and provide a solid defensive screen. Rice will anchor the midfield, while Zubimendi and Merino are tasked with contributing to both defensive duties and the attacking push.
The back line also features notable changes because of injuries to Ben White and William Saliba. Jurriën Timber and Gabriel Magalhães will likely form the central defensive partnership, with Yerson Mosquera and prospect Lino Sousa as the full-backs protecting goalkeeper David Raya.
Injury concerns force Arteta’s hand
The extensive line-up changes are a direct consequence of numerous fitness problems within the squad. Key forward Saka and defender White are both anticipated to be available again around September 14, ruling them out of the immediate fixture. The defence is further weakened by Saliba’s absence, with his return not expected until late September.
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In attack, the team is also missing long-term absentees Jesus and Kai Havertz, whose returns are projected for late November. These circumstances have created opportunities for new signings and academy players to make their case for a regular spot.
Arsenal Predicted XI vs. Nottingham Forest (4-3-3): Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Merino, Zubimendi, Rice; Martinelli, Eze, Gyokeres.
