Pain in the Arsenal
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A way too early Arsenal 2022/23 predicted starting XI

By James Cormack

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal celebrates scoring his goal with team mates during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 20, 2022 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 20: Emile Smith Rowe of Arsenal celebrates scoring his goal with team mates during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on April 20, 2022 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images) /
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Midfielders

Youri Tielemans has been linked with a £25m move to the Emirates. (Photo by VIRGINIE LEFOUR/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
Youri Tielemans has been linked with a £25m move to the Emirates. (Photo by VIRGINIE LEFOUR/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images) /

Thomas Partey (DM) – An argument could be made for Thomas Partey being the most important cog in Arteta’s machine. The Ghanaian was exceptional either side of the African Cup of Nations last season, and his injury at Crystal Palace derailed the Gunners’ campaign.

Youri Tielemans (CM) – Arsenal’s interest in the Belgian midfielder is said to have cooled, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the Gunners made a move for him later on in the window. Tielemans is a player Mikel Arteta requires in his midfield, and he isn’t expected to sign a contract extension with Leicester. Watch this space.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – The stylistically similar Fabio Vieira will provide Odegaard with stiff competition, but the Norwegian skipper will start as Arteta’s favoured option after he excelled last season. Odegaard has established a deadly relationship with Bukayo Saka down Arsenal’s right as he emerged as a creative force from the right half-space.

Continued on the next slide…