Predicted Arsenal XI vs Brentford: Back to full strength?

Arsenal are back in action this weekend as they make the trip to Brentford on Sunday afternoon.

We haven’t seen the Gunners take to the field since last Thursday away at FC Zurich as the passing of Queen Elizabeth II forced the postponement of their two most recent fixtures.

Mikel Arteta doesn’t have the fondest of memories of the Brentford Community Stadium, but his Arsenal side will be much changed from the XI that was bullied amid a 2-0 defeat on opening night last season.

Nevertheless, the Bees are a tough proposition for the visitors.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Brentford

Here’s the team Mikel Arteta could select for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Brentford.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – There’s no reason why Matt Turner would be selected ahead of Ramsdale for this one.

Takehiro Tomiyasu (RB) – Ben White’s omission from the England squad triggered outrage among Arsenal supporters, but it’s since been revealed that he’s carrying a minor knock. Thus, he won’t play on Sunday and Tomiyasu should make his first Premier League start of the campaign.

William Saliba (CB) – Well rested and raring to go, it’s been far too long since we’ve seen Wilo in action.

Gabriel (CB) – Gabriel started alongside Rob Holding in Arsenal’s most recent clash against FC Zurich and has been an ever-present in the Premier League XI. That should continue this weekend.

Kieran Tierney (LB) – Oleksandr Zinchenko has picked up another muscle injury, folks. He’s out of the Ukraine squad for their upcoming fixtures as a result and he won’t play on Sunday. Tierney, who impressed in Switzerland, will deputise for the four-time Premier League winner.

Midfielders

Thomas Partey (DM) – He’s back! Following a relatively brief injury layoff, Partey has returned to training and is in contention to start on Sunday. His return could swing this contest in Arsenal’s favour.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – Xhaka’s importance to this Arsenal side is only growing and his steady form this season has seen him emerge as one of the first names on Mikel’s team sheet.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – Fabio Vieira is slowly being introduced by Arteta, but it’d be a surprise to see him make his first Premier League start on Sunday. Skipper Martin Odegaard will once again function as Arsenal’s creative force from the right half-space.

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – Saka produced his best performance of the season at Old Trafford two weeks ago and has since been named in the England squad for the September UEFA Nations League fixtures. He’ll start down the right in west London.

Gabriel Jesus (ST) – Arsenal’s star performer to start the new campaign will fancy his chances against Ben Mee on Sunday. Expect the well-rested Brazilian to start like a house on fire in this one.

Gabriel Martinelli (LW) – Martinelli has played a lot of football already this season, but a lack of alternative options (Eddie Nketiah aside) means the Brazilian will continue to start down the left flank.