Arsenal vs Cardiff City predicted starting XI: Mesut Ozil returns?

Wingbacks

This is such an important part of the match, this position. There are so many things riding on these two and their ability to not just attack effectively, but do their part to help what figures to be a beaten and battered defense.

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That said, I don’t think there can be too much question regarding who starts here, seeing as how there are pretty much no options. Ainsley Maitland-Niles will start on the right hand side, and one of the main reasons that I hope we go with a three-at-the-back system is to let Maitland-Niles play to his strengths (how many times can I say “play to his strength” during the course of this predicted XI?”).

He’s been used as a fullback lately, and it really isn’t working out. Mainly because he just isn’t a fullback, and the sooner we can realize that, the better.

Opposite him, Sead Kolasinac is the man. He’s one of the best wingbacks out there, and his attacking prowess can’t be replicated with the limited resources at hand. There’s just too much power there.

Moving on into the midfield now.