Arsenal vs Olympiakos predicted XI: Easier than last time?

Defense

Here’s where we really need to get creative. I love this Shkodran Mustafi and David Luiz partnership, but despite how well they did as a unit against Everton, they looked tired, worn, exhausted. A lot is being asked of them to play two matches a week with the intensity that is required. So it’s time to change things up.

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Seeing as how Mikel Arteta apparently has zero faith in Rob Holding, I hope we can finally see the debut of Pablo Mari. The Brazilian defender has yet to make an appearance for his new club, despite him apparently being saved specifically for this tie, so hopefully we will get to see him there.

Next to him, I would hope it’s Sokratis, since the little experiment of him at rightback didn’t work so well. It also got him hurt, so if Sokratis can’t play, then I’d hope we turn to Holding and not to Mustafi or Luiz.

At fullback, we’re unfortunately a bit stranded at leftback, with Sead Kolasinac suffering another injury on his return to the starting XI against Everton. Kieran Tierney remains out and Cedric Soares hasn’t return either.

That means Bukayo Saka, yet again. Or, if we’re feeling saucy, maybe Sokratis can play leftback. That was a joke.

On to the midfield.