Arsenal vs Aston Villa: Predicted Starting XI & Tactics

Forwards

RW—Nicolas Pepe

This is the only position I was debating, really. Willian made way for Saka in the Europa League, and Reiss Nelson has picked up a knock, so it makes sense for the Brazilian to start. However, Arteta spoke about Pepe’s need for consistency. Given the Ivorian’s solid form at the moment, I reckon he’ll get the nod.

CF—Alexandre Lacazette

Despite a recent dip in goalscoring form – to be expected from Lacazette, at this point – the Frenchman proved his worth off the ball against Man Utd, putting in a number of key tackles, and running for far longer than his typical 20 allotted minutes of stamina. Let’s hope he can knit things together against Villa.

LW—Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

In my new favorite gameshow, “Who Else Did You Expect To Start For Arsenal,” Auba makes his weekly appearance. Our Gabonese talisman has recently rediscovered scoring form, and when he’s on fire, he’s unstoppable.