Arsenal vs Rennes predicted starting XI: Turn this thing around

Midfield

This is a tough one to call because, suddenly, there are four viable options, all of whom bring their own tricks to the match. Granit Xhaka, Aaron Ramsey, Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi all have a foot in this race, and seeing as how the latter two didn’t feature against United, you have to imagine that they are on equal footing with the dynamism of the former two.

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That said, I’m splitting them down the middle. Granit Xhaka should retain his place, because how can he not after getting man of the match against United? We know that he can play multiple matches per week, as his style isn’t very labor intensive, so no need to tamper with that.

The question then becomes who benefits the club most next to him which, again, is not an easy question to answer.

Ramsey should probably be saved in case we need a boost late in the match (let’s hope we don’t). Matteo Guendouzi should probably be saved if we need to shore up and hold a lead.

Meaning that Lucas Torreira gets the nod, not least of all because he was suspended for the last match and will be dying to get back out there. Plus, the Torreira/Xhaka combo has been dynamic this year.

Wide attackers next. Let’s have fun.