Eze switch and Saliba return as Arsenal weigh two big calls for Man City showdown

Eze switch and Saliba return as Arsenal weigh two big calls for Man City showdown

Mikel Arteta could tweak his Arsenal lineup in two key areas as they gear up for a huge Premier League clash with Manchester City this weekend.

Despite a summer of major reinforcements, Arteta’s team selections have been relatively predictable so far. In midweek, though, it was the established names who delivered—Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard came off the bench to fire Arsenal past Athletic Club in the Champions League, underlining Arteta’s philosophy of “finishers” making the difference.

Martinelli’s impact in Spain may earn him a recall, especially with Arteta often keen to ride the momentum of in-form players. The Brazilian winger has already scored a decisive late winner against City at the Emirates before, and his return would likely see Eberechi Eze shifted into a central role to cover for the injured Martin Ødegaard. Mikel Merino, who has faced criticism after the loss at Anfield, could be the one to drop out.

In defence, William Saliba is pushing for a start after being named on the bench in Bilbao. Cristhian Mosquera impressed in his absence, but Saliba’s excellent record against Erling Haaland may prove decisive in Arteta’s selection.

With a League Cup tie against Port Vale to rotate for, only two changes seem necessary. The potential adjusted XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Eze; Madueke, Martinelli, Gyökeres.