Arsenal predicted lineup vs Wolves: Smith Rowe or Martinelli in 4-3-3?

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LONDON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 23: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Burnley at Emirates Stadium on January 23, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Midfielders

Martin Odegaard (AM) – His form since the beginning of December has been exceptional. While he’s shown his talent off throughout that time, there was a newfound level of confidence and borderline arrogance in the win over Brentford.

His flicks, tricks and vision were a delightful to behold, as was his blossoming partnership with Bukayo Saka.

Thomas Partey (DM) – Partey has always been a defensive midfielder, but he’s been one with that extra dimension to him that fans have seen glimpses of across his time in north London.

This new role limits that, though, where his masterful screening and defensive positioning provide the base for Arsenal, as well as offer greater balance in distribution playing through the thirds.

Granit Xhaka (AM) – New system, new predicted lineup, new….weirdness.

It feels off listing Xhaka as anything other than a central midfielder, and while his role still encompasses many of his usual defensive traits, this new system sees him operate higher up the pitch with a different set of tasks.

Given the level of the opposition it might be more central midfielder than left-sided No. 8, however.

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