Arsenal’s Predicted Starting XI to Face Crystal Palace

Nothing quite like needing a rebound after opening day, but that is the situation Arsenal currently find themselves in. After being nearly unanimously chosen to topple West Ham, Arsenal fell absolutely flat, looked helpless in every facet of the game, and essentially embarrassed themselves.

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Now, Arsenal face the worst possible second opponent in Crystal Palace.

The Eagles are still at the stage of their progression that they are supposed to be near-guaranteed wins but as we saw last year, they are anything but. Arsenal may have beaten them twice, 2-1 both times, but neither win was conclusive or dominant. Palace plays a very physical game that can often times upset Arsenal’s fluid style of play.

If we thought West Ham’s defense was tough to crack, Crystal Palace’s defense is even better, plus they have the added holding midfielder Yohan Cabaye to enforce from the center of the pitch.

This will not be an easy game but needless to say, Arsenal need a win. I would prefer not to see the “Sack Wenger” signs back out in force after just two matches so a good conclusive win would be massive, seeing as how we could not do it last year and this is supposed to be a much improved team.

Arsenal have Alexis Sanchez and Hector Bellerin returning from injury with Danny Welbeck on his way to recovery as well, so they may be fit enough to factor into this weekend’s clash.

And so, here is how Arsenal should deploy the troops as we return to a 4-2-3-1 formation after having to suffer through life without Alexis.

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