Arsenal predicted lineup vs Chelsea: 3-4-3 return with Balogun?

Wing-Backs & Midfielders

Bukayo Saka (RWB) – Of all the millions of positions that Saka has featured in, right wing-back is arguably his weakest. As seen in the previous meeting at Stamford Bridge, Saka struggled to cope with the demands placed on him as he was left to deal with Holding as the right centre-back, which could change with White behind him.

The Gunners’ two most threatening players in positions that reduce their danger? It may have to be.

Albert Sambi Lokonga (CM) – Another opportunity for the Belgian to showcase his ability, the midfield control that N’Golo Kante and Jorginho will look to have means Sambi will need to demonstrate his positional awareness and proactive reading of the game throughout.

Likely to drop into the defence with Holding and Tierney either side to allow White the chance to provide width in a right-back position.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – With Partey still absent it means Xhaka will have to prove he’s capable of managing without his usual partner. His display against the Bees was very much ‘Xhaka without Partey’. Has to speed up in possession as the previous concerns over his use of the ball returned to the fore.

Nuno Tavares (LWB) – This is the interesting move that we may see implemented by Arteta as he seeks to inject pace and ball-carrying ability in the flanks in an attempt to isolate Chelsea’s defenders in transition. It’s a big call placing Tavares in the side for his full Premier League debut and it may be more of a wing-back role than a winger role given how the match will likely play out.