Arsenal are preparing for a crucial early test in their Premier League title challenge as they get ready to face Aston Villa this weekend.
The Gunners began their season with a strong 2-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers, where goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka secured the victory.
As they approach their trip to Villa Park, the team is in relatively good shape in terms of injuries.
Dutch defender Jurrien Timber, who had been absent from Arsenal’s final two pre-season matches, made his return as a second-half substitute in the season opener against Wolves.
His presence is a positive sign for the squad as they aim to maintain their early momentum. However, there are still a few injury concerns.
Takehiro Tomiyasu, who has been dealing with a knee injury, remains unavailable and is expected to be out for several more weeks.
This injury kept him from participating in the team’s pre-season tour in the United States, and his recovery is still ongoing.
Additionally, Kieran Tierney continues his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury that he sustained during Euro 2024, which means he will not be available for selection against Aston Villa.
On a more encouraging note, there is optimism surrounding the potential return of Fabio Vieira.
The Portuguese midfielder has been recovering from a hip injury, and there is a possibility that he could be included in the squad for the upcoming match, providing Mikel Arteta with another option in midfield.
As for the lineup, Arteta may decide to stick with the starting XI that delivered the win against Wolverhampton.
However, he does have the flexibility to make changes if needed.
One potential adjustment could be the inclusion of Leandro Trossard in place of Gabriel Martinelli on the left wing, depending on Arteta’s tactical plans for the match.
Trossard, who has been a versatile option for the Gunners, offers a different dynamic in attack and could be preferred if Arteta seeks a different approach.
Another player to consider is Riccardo Calafiori, a summer signing who was on the bench for the Wolves game. Calafiori is fit and available if Arteta decides to make changes in defense.
The center-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, which was integral to Arsenal’s defensive solidity last season, is expected to remain unchanged.
Both Saliba and Gabriel were included in the PFA Team of the Season, highlighting their importance to the team.
They were joined in that prestigious lineup by fellow Arsenal teammates David Raya, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard, underscoring the strength of the squad.
As Arsenal head into the clash against Aston Villa, their predicted starting lineup is likely to feature Raya in goal, with Ben White, Saliba, Gabriel, and Oleksandr Zinchenko forming the defensive line.
In midfield, the trio of Odegaard, Thomas Partey, and Rice is expected to continue, providing a strong backbone to the team.
The attack will likely be led by Saka, Havertz, and Martinelli, though Trossard’s inclusion remains a possibility depending on Arteta’s tactical preferences.
This match against Aston Villa will be an important test for Arsenal as they seek to solidify their early season form and continue their pursuit of the Premier League title.
The Gunners will aim to build on their opening victory and demonstrate their strength against a Villa side that will present its own challenges.
With a relatively healthy squad and the potential return of key players, Arsenal will be looking to secure another win as they navigate the early stages of what promises to be a competitive season.
