Arsenal vs Bournemouth predicted XI: Moving forward

Midfield

Things could get interesting when we step into the midfield. Granit Xhaka is likely out of consideration. He has become the foundation of the Premier League defense and as such, this falls out of his dominion. Lucas Torreira is the other regular, the sole defensive midfielder on the club. It’s possible he gets the start for lack of a better option, but I think that Mikel Arteta is going to build a midfield base on numbers and athleticism.

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First of all, Matteo Guendouzi will play in the Xhaka-esque role, in the middle of the midfield three, controlling possession. He’s been an outcast to the Premier League set-up since Arteta took over, so he’s going to be eyes on the prize in this one.

Joe Willock will also get his shot to get back out there, and with much to prove, look for him to take on a big role as well.

Lastly, I give Dani Ceballos the nod. The rumors are spiraling, but Arteta said that Ceballos needs to earn his role, and that will only happen if he plays. So I expect him to play in an attempt to earn his spot back on the club.

That gives us Guendouzi flanked by Willock and Ceballos. Not a lot of defensive help, but a hell of a lot of determination and athleticism. I can dig that.

Finally, the front three.