Arsenal is gearing up for one of their toughest challenges in the Champions League group stage as they prepare to face Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on Tuesday night at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners began their European campaign with a 0-0 draw against Atalanta, a result that showed both their defensive resilience and their struggles in possession.
Goalkeeper David Raya played a key role in securing the draw, making a crucial double save, including a penalty stop, to ensure Arsenal left Italy with a valuable point.
Despite dealing with multiple injuries, Arsenal has remained unbeaten across all competitions this season under Mikel Arteta.
The team heads into the PSG clash on the back of an exciting 4-2 win over Leicester City.
However, it’s expected that Arteta will stick with a largely unchanged lineup as he prepares for the French champions’ visit.
Here’s Arsenal’s predicted lineup for the PSG match, likely in a 4-3-3 formation:
Goalkeeper: David Raya
Raya’s impressive performance against Atalanta, particularly his penalty save, should secure him another start against PSG.
Right-back: Ben White
White faces competition for his place, especially after strong performances in the Leicester match.
However, with some injury concerns in the defense, White is expected to return to the starting XI.
Center-back: William Saliba
Saliba, the French international, will be crucial in dealing with PSG’s dangerous attack, which could include his compatriots Bradley Barcola and Randal Kolo Muani.
Center-back: Gabriel Magalhães
Gabriel has been a threat in set-pieces this season, and his defensive presence will be vital as Arsenal tries to shut down PSG’s potent forwards.
Left-back: Jurrien Timber
Although Riccardo Calafiori’s knee injury isn’t severe, Arteta may opt to start Timber, whose defensive versatility will be needed against PSG’s strong wingers.
Midfield: Jorginho
Jorginho is expected to anchor the midfield, bringing calm and control.
While there are concerns about his ability to cope with PSG’s fast-paced attack, his experience could prove invaluable in dictating Arsenal’s tempo.
Midfield: Declan Rice
Rice has had a slow start to the season, but his dominant display against Bolton in the Carabao Cup demonstrated his ability to rise to big occasions.
Arsenal will need him to step up against PSG’s strong midfield.
Midfield: Kai Havertz
Havertz, who scored in the win over Leicester, brings physicality and versatility to Arsenal’s midfield, which could be crucial against PSG’s relatively lightweight center.
Right-wing: Bukayo Saka
Saka, in top form, continues to provide assists in the Premier League. His battle with PSG’s left-back Nuno Mendes will be a key matchup.
Striker: Leandro Trossard
Trossard, coming off a strong performance against Leicester where he scored, is in fine form and will be eager to contribute against PSG, especially given his previous Champions League experience.
–Left-wing: Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli, fresh off scoring his first Premier League goal of the season, will be looking to continue his momentum in this crucial European match.
With this lineup shaping up, Arsenal fans are hopeful that the Gunners can rise to the occasion and secure a critical result against PSG.
It promises to be an exciting encounter, with Arsenal’s unbeaten run on the line and PSG’s attacking force set to test their defense.
