Arsenal vs Manchester City predicted XI: Alright then, we’re back

Midfield

You may start to notice that nothing in this predicted XI is that revolutionary because Arteta doesn’t need to be. He has a lot of flexibility with the five substitution rule and thus, if he wants to, he can completely overturn his starting XI at half-time, if need be.

He’ll have his most flexibility in the midfield, most likely. With the two base positions and the No. 10 role to fill, it’s pretty predictable how he will choose his men—Granit Xhaka will start next to Dani Ceballos with Mesut Ozil desperate to find some kind of production in the attacking role.

The question in the midfield is how Arteta will use those subs. With Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi both in a place where they need to prove themselves, they should get their opportunity here, though it may also largely depend on the situation.

Whatever the case, it starts with the trifecta of Xhaka-Ceballos-Ozil. A lot of possibilities here.

On to the attack.