Arsenal faces a pivotal FA Cup third-round match against Manchester United as they aim to bounce back from a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup. Mikel Arteta is expected to field a strong lineup, balancing the need to progress in the tournament with the upcoming north London derby against Tottenham on Wednesday.
Injury Updates
- Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee), and Ben White (knee) remain sidelined, limiting Arteta’s defensive and attacking options.
- Raheem Sterling has recovered from a knee injury, providing a boost to the attacking line.
- Gabriel Martinelli, who started against Newcastle, is back in contention, while Riccardo Calafiori is expected to return to the lineup after being rested midweek.
Team News
Arteta is likely to rely on key players such as Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in midfield, forming a strong core. Mikel Merino, who has impressed since joining, could partner them, while Jorginho and Thomas Partey remain alternate options.
In attack, Arteta faces decisions following the team’s lackluster performance against Newcastle. Kai Havertz is expected to lead the line, with Gabriel Jesus potentially playing on the right flank in a rare positional switch. Gabriel Martinelli rounds out the front three, offering pace and creativity.
Between the posts, David Raya is set to retain his starting position despite the availability of Neto, who has yet to debut since his loan move from Bournemouth. The defense is expected to include Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and the returning Riccardo Calafiori.
Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Raya
Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori
Midfielders: Odegaard, Rice, Merino
Forwards: Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli
Key Talking Points
- Arteta has emphasized the importance of winning silverware this season, particularly with their Carabao Cup hopes diminished.
- The team’s injury concerns, especially the absence of Saka and defensive stalwarts, pose a challenge but also provide opportunities for others to step up.
- With a packed schedule, Arteta must carefully manage the fitness of his squad to maintain competitiveness across all competitions.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, January 12, 2025
- Time: 3 PM GMT
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London
This clash is not only a chance for Arsenal to progress in the FA Cup but also an opportunity to regain momentum and confidence ahead of their derby against Tottenham.