Arsenal vs Napoli predicted XI: Coping without Granit Xhaka

Back Three

This is where the panic sets in. I’m literally three toes into the pool and I’m already scared of drowning. Without Laurent Koscielny, we will have to revert to the only back three that is thus possible. The one font of confidence will be Sokratis, who will be the centermost defender. He’s been a miracle and a half this year, but without help around him, he will be flustered, alone and likely vulnerable to disciplinary measures, since he has a habit of wrestling.

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On the right side, expect Shkodran Mustafi, because who else could do it, Stephan Lichtsteiner? Unlikely. Mustafi will be back and for the life of me, I swear he still has some good matches left in him, even if it seems inevitable that he gets sold this summer for being far too inconsistent.

Still, stepping up against Napoli with Koscielny out is a huge ask, but hopefully one that he can rise to, because we are going to be absolutely stranded if he can’t get his act together, even in the smallest bit.

Lastly, Nacho Monreal will start on the left hand side, and while he still isn’t a centerback, he’s an intelligent defender who can be counted on to do his job, even if he’s lacking a bit physically.

On to the wingbacks, who shockingly need to reestablish themselves.