Emmanuel OchayiFresh off a flawless start to the season, Arsenal aims to continue their winning streak as they face Fulham today. The team’s optimism is further fueled by the return of key players from their injury list.
While Jurrien Timber and Mo Elneny remain sidelined, the return of Gabriel Jesus to the training ground has injected a sense of optimism. His reintegration into the playing squad is a positive sign, although it remains questionable whether he’s prepared for a starting spot. However, his presence off the bench is anticipated.
Arteta said: “We’re really happy. Obviously, it was a big blow for him after the pre-season that he had to have another surgery, but he’s looking really sharp and trained the full week really well, so he’s ready to go.”
Regrettably, Takehiro Tomiyasu will be absent due to suspension after accumulating two yellow cards against Crystal Palace. Nonetheless, Oleksandr Zinchenko’s readiness to reassume his position at left-back bolsters the team’s defense.
The projected Arsenal lineup paints a formidable picture:
Ramsdale Partey White Saliba Zinchenko Odegaard Rice Havertz Saka Nketiah Martinelli
Injuries: Timber, Elneny
Doubts: Nelson, Tierney, Balogun, Lokonga
Suspended: Tomiyasu.
Time and date: 3pm BST on Saturday August 26, 2023
Venue: Emirates Stadium
This cohesive lineup should have ample capability to handle Fulham’s challenge. The opponent, Fulham, is bracing for a demanding season ahead, with looming relegation concerns unless they can wisely utilize the funds garnered from Mitrovic’s substantial transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Fans will expect to see a more free-flowing iteration of Arteta’s side. Since the start of last season, 81 Premier League goals have been scored at the Emirates Stadium (55 for Arsenal, 26 against), giving it the highest goals-per-game ratio of any top-flight venue in that time.
As the weekend approaches, the question arises: Will Mikel Arteta introduce a new tactical approach, or are we destined to witness Thomas playing as a right-back throughout the campaign? The answer remains uncertain, but one can expect intriguing developments in Arteta’s strategic choices.
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