Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is wrestling with significant team selection headaches ahead of a pivotal Premier League encounter away at Aston Villa this Saturday.
Injury crisis forces defensive reshuffle
The Gunners travel to the Midlands with a lengthening injury list. Declan Rice and Cristhian Mosquera both picked up fresh concerns during the midweek victory over Brentford, joining Kai Havertz, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Leandro Trossard on the treatment table. Arteta confirmed that while Saliba is 'a matter of days' away, a return against Club Brugge next week is more likely, and Mosquera's issue appears 'more complicated'.
This leaves the Arsenal boss with a makeshift defence. Jurrien Timber, who impressed centrally against Brentford, is expected to partner Piero Hincapie at centre-back. Ben White, after a strong comeback performance, should retain his place at right-back, with Riccardo Calafiori on the left, though he is one booking away from a suspension. David Raya will continue in goal after his heroics in midweek.
Midfield change with Eze poised for start
The biggest decision rests in midfield, where the ever-present Declan Rice is a major doubt. Despite Arteta refusing to rule him out, the manager is expected to err on the side of caution given the midfielder's niggle and a relentless fixture schedule. This could open the door for summer signing Eberechi Eze to make his first Premier League start for the club.
Eze, who played just 29 minutes against Brentford, would likely join Martin Zubimendi and captain Martin Odegaard in a reshaped engine room. This change would offer a different creative dynamic as Arsenal seek to control the game at Villa Park.
Forward line adjustments expected
In attack, changes are also anticipated. Noni Madueke is likely to make way after a disappointing display in midweek, with Bukayo Saka returning fresh on the right flank. Gabriel Martinelli should continue on the left with Trossard still absent.
Through the middle, Mikel Merino is fit and favoured to lead the line, though Viktor Gyokeres is pushing for a first start since early November should Arteta wish to rotate his striker.
A victory for Arsenal would send them eight points clear at the Premier League summit, at least temporarily, before Manchester City play later on Saturday. With a Champions League tie against Club Brugge looming, Arteta's team selection will be a delicate balance between securing vital points and managing his squad's fitness.
