Arsenal vs Manchester City: Predicted starting XI for massive opener

Fullbacks

Here we have one of the easiest positions to call. However, it would have been made a heck of a lot easier if it weren’t for the sudden, lengthy injury to Sead Kolasinac, who I think we were all looking forward to seeing back in peak form.

On the right side, even with the addition of Stephan Lichtsteiner, who I really hope to see out there soon, it has to fall to Hector Bellerin, who brings the electricity that Unai Emery loves to have in his side. It will be the Spaniards job to lose throughout the season, though, so if he doesn’t keep a firm grip on it, don’t be surprised to see Lichtsteiner sneak in there.

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On the left side, it’s really a war of attrition. With Kolasinac out and Nacho Monreal so short on fitness, it has to fall to Ainsley Maitland-Niles, because he has the athleticism to keep pace with the intense Manchester City attack.

That isn’t a lot of experience on the flanks, and not the best of defensive prowess either, but the speed that the two bring might be the best solution to all of this anyway. It’s not like City have the best defense either.

Let’s talk midfield next.