Gabriel was subbed off at half-time against West Ham on Saturday (Image: Getty)
For the first time since matchday four in the this season, finished the weekend second in the table.
The Gunners’ thumping 5-2 victory over laid down a marker ahead of ’s Sunday afternoon clash with reigning champions .
side got the business done against City, meaning now sit nine points behind the leaders.
For Arteta though, it’s a different Mancunian outfit on the agenda this week, with the visitors to the Emirates Stadium.
The Spanish coach is winless across his two meetings with new United boss – something he’ll have to change on Wednesday to avoid losing any more ground on .
Ahead of the north London meeting, Express Sport have predicted how might line-up against the Red Devils.
Arsenal predicted XI vs Man Utd (4-3-3)
Goalkeeper: Raya
Given that David Raya’s transfer from Brentford was officially confirmed as a permanent deal in the summer, the shot-stopper could be considered one of the league’s season signings.
His stability between the sticks has been crucial for and if they’re to mount a title charge in the new year, Raya’s form will be paramount.
Read more…
Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel have shone in Arsenal’s backline (Image: Getty)
Defence: Calafiori, Gabriel, Saliba, Timber
Despite a little blip just before half-time, were once again able to rely on their preferred backline for the West Ham tie.
has struggled with fitness issues across his debut season in England and was hooked midway through the second half, but Arteta did hint it was just a precaution ahead of a hectic festive period.
It was a similar case for Gabriel, who also failed to see the game out, but fears over any long-term issues were quelled by Arteta post-match.
And given the importance of the United fixture, it’s likely the manager won’t be taking any risks with his defence, meaning the duo, alongside regular starters Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, will be in the XI.
Don’t miss… [READ] [ARSENAL] [NEWS]
Midfield: Jorginho, Rice, Odegaard
It’s one-in-one-out in the midfield department for at the moment, as just after Martin Odegaard returned from a lengthy injury, Thomas Partey picked up a knock of his own.
The Ghanian is expected to be out for some time, meaning Jorginho is expected to retain his spot at the base of ’s midfield.
Alongside the Italian will be Declan Rice, if fit, with Odegaard pulling the strings just in front.
Don’t miss…
Bukayo Saka continued his sensational season on Saturday (Image: Getty)
Attack: Martinelli, Havertz, Saka
continued his campaign for Player of the Season with another goal and two assists at the weekend and is currently among the most in-form players, not only in England, but across Europe.
also continued his strong campaign with a fifth goal this term, with the German expected to lead the line on Wednesday.
It leaves just one position left in the front three and while Leonardo Trossard bagged ’s second goal at the London Stadium, Arteta could use this midweek fixture to bring Gabriel Martinelli back into the side.
predicted XI vs : Raya; Calafiori, Gabriel, Saliba, Timber; Jorginho, Rice, Odegaard; Martinelli, Havertz, Sak