Arsenal face Manchester City in today’s Community Shield clash at the Wembley Stadium.
The Gunners have had a dreadful record against the Cityzens over recent years. They have lost each of their last eight meetings and will be hoping to end the poor streak.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta does not have the services of Gabriel Jesus due to a knee surgery, but other than that, he has almost a fit squad to choose from this afternoon.
Formation: 4-3-3
Predicted Line-up:
Aaron Ramsdale has been Arsenal’s undisputed choice in goal over the past two seasons.
David Raya’s arrival could present questions over his position, but he is currently an automatic starter.
He should go into the game with confidence after saving a penalty in the shoot-out win over Monaco.
In front of him, we anticipate a couple of changes in defence from the Emirates Cup win.
Ben White should return at right-back ahead of Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Gabriel Magalhaes should get the nod ahead of Jakub Kiwior to partner William Saliba in central defence.
Jurrien Timber looks likely to keep his place at left-back as Oleksandr Zinchenko may not be fit enough to start.
In midfield, we would personally prefer the manager to go with more defensive assurance over creativity.
Thomas Partey should feature in the number six role today ahead of Jorginho and Declan Rice.
Rice was impressive with his link-up play with Gabriel Martinelli from the number eight spot.
We fancy the England international to start in the midfield position ahead of Kai Havertz.
Martin Odegaard should be expected to partner the duo in midfield against Pep Guardiola’s side.
In attack, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli are assured to start from the right and left wing.
Leandro Trossard is a strong candidate to lead the line amid his brilliant form in pre-season.
However, Eddie Nketiah is likely to be Arteta’s preferred pick after his recent goal against Monaco.
The Gunners graduate has a better top speed and should be a threat on the counter-attack.
How Arsenal could line up vs Man City
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
