Arsenal: Best starting XI when everyone is fit

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LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 28: Kieran Tierney of Arsenal runs with the ball as he is challenged by Danny da Costa of Eintracht Frankfurt during the UEFA Europa League group F match between Arsenal FC and Eintracht Frankfurt at Emirates Stadium on November 28, 2019 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /

Full-Backs

Hector Bellerin has not looked at his sharpest since returning from an ACL rupture and hamstring problem. It was later reported that he was playing through a groin issue, taking painkillers simply to get onto the pitch. In this scenario, he is fully fit and sharp. Based on his performances last season before his ACL tear, he is by far Arsenal’s best right-back, especially if Ainsley Maitland-Niles refuses to play in the position.

On the opposite flank, Kieran Tierney looked extremely comfortable at left-back in his short stint of fitness earlier this season. He has created more chances from open play per 90 minutes than any other player in the squad, displayed terrific crossing ability in advanced areas of the pitch, and is a more capable defender than Bukayo Saka.

Sead Kolasinac is another option that Mikel Arteta could turn to, but his awkward play in possession, poor ball retention, and defensive curiosities mean he must play second-fiddle to Tierney. These two positions are relatively easy to determine.

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