Predicted Arsenal XI vs Man Utd: No need for change

Disappointment surrounding Mykhaylo Mudryk has dissipated in north London after Arsenal claimed victory over Tottenham in the derby, and Leandro Trossard was sounded out as the alternative.

The Belgian, who’ll be available for Sunday’s game, arrives having established himself as a bona fide Premier League star on the south coast, but a falling out with coach Roberto De Zerbi allowed the Gunners to pounce.

For now, though, Trossard will serve as a cover option for Arsenal’s current frontmen. Mikel Arteta’s starting XI is an incredibly tough one to break into, and the Spaniard is expected to name yet another unchanged line-up this weekend.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Man Utd

Here’s how Arteta will line his Arsenal side up against Man Utd on Sunday.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – Man of the Match last weekend, Ramsdale produced his best performance of the season in the derby.

Ben White (RB) – The excellent White has barely put a foot wrong all season, but an ominous test awaits in the form of a red-hot Marcus Rashford.

William Saliba (CB) – Saliba struggled against United in the reverse fixture, but the Frenchman boasts the requisite skill set to shun the visitors in transition. He could have a significant role to play.

Gabriel (CB) – The Brazilian has produced faultless display after faultless display in recent weeks.

Oleksandr Zinchenko (LB) – Why, oh why did Manchester City let this guy go? We’re not complaining, mind!

Midfielders

Thomas Partey (DM) – Robbed of the Goal of the Season by the upright last weekend, Partey could dominate a United midfield that’ll be without Casemiro on Sunday.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – It’s been a quiet couple of weeks for Xhaka after the World Cup, but the midfielder’s spot in the XI isn’t yet under threat despite the return of Emile Smith Rowe.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – The best player in the Premier League right now?

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – One-vs-one menace Saka will face up against Luke Shaw or Tyrell Malacia at the Emirates in what’s poised to be an enthralling duel no matter who Erik ten Hag opts for at left-back. The England international is continuing to produce in the final third.

Eddie Nketiah (ST) – It was a frustrating derby for Eddie in front of goal, but the striker’s performing his function superbly. A tough test awaits on Sunday, however.

Gabriel Martinelli (LW) – Trossard’s debut will surely come off the bench on Sunday with Martinelli, whose form has taken a slide in recent weeks, continuing in the starting XI.