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Predicted Arsenal XI vs Wolves: Xhaka bids farewell

By James Cormack

NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - MAY 20: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal FC at City Ground on May 20, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
NOTTINGHAM, ENGLAND - MAY 20: Granit Xhaka of Arsenal arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Nottingham Forest and Arsenal FC at City Ground on May 20, 2023 in Nottingham, England. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /
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Arsenal will bid farewell to their current longest-serving player on Sunday with Granit Xhaka expected to play his final game for the club.

While the player himself hasn’t officially confirmed his departure, reports have emerged regarding the midfielder’s desire to seek a new challenge this summer after he put together a fine season in north London. Bayer Leverkusen are believed to be the front-runners for his signature.

With Man City wrapping up the league title and Wolves long securing their Premier League status for another season, there’s little riding on Sunday’s game. However, Arsenal supporters should be in a celebratory mood as the curtain comes down on what’s been a memorable season, even if it hasn’t been accompanied by silverware.

Predicted Arsenal XI vs Wolves

Mikel Arteta has got Gooners dreaming again, and here’s the starting XI he could pick for the final game of the season against Wolves.

Granit Xhaka is set to bid farewell to the Emirates faithful on Sunday. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Granit Xhaka is set to bid farewell to the Emirates faithful on Sunday. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images) /

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Aaron Ramsdale (GK) – David De Gea has already claimed the Golden Glove, but Ramsdale will be looking to end the season on a high with his 14th Premier League clean sheet of the season.

Ben White (RB) – White impressed at the heart of defence last weekend, but I expect him to return to his right-back function for the final game.

Jakub Kiwior (CB) – With White expected to return to right-back, Kiwior, who started at left-back last weekend (LCB in possession), should slide across the defence and partner Gabriel.

Gabriel (CB) – The Brazilian will be looking to cap off what’s been an immense season with one final stout outing at the Emirates.

Kieran Tierney (LB) – With Arteta changing tack at the City Ground, Tierney was named among the substitutes. This may well be his final appearance for the Gunners.

Midfielders

Jorginho (DM) – It’s a toss-up between the Italian and Thomas Partey, but I think Arteta really appreciates what Jorginho provides and currently has him above the Ghanaian in the holding midfield pecking order.

Granit Xhaka (CM) – It’s going to be emotional, folks.

Martin Odegaard (CM) – With Gabriel Martinelli absent, Odegaard is looking to finish the season as Arsenal’s leading Premier League scorer. No midfielder has scored more than the Gunners skipper (15) this term.

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – If Arteta was going to rest Saka, he would’ve done so against Forest. The England international, who so desperately needs a break, is expected to start once again on Sunday.

Gabriel Jesus (ST) – It’s been a quiet couple of weeks for Jesus, but there’s little to be concerned about. The striker will be looking to finish his maiden season in north London on a high and add to his goal tally.

Leandro Trossard (LW) – Trossard’s campaign has petered out somewhat after such a dazzling start. Nevertheless, with Martinelli out and Arteta refusing to give Reiss Nelson a chance, Trossard should get the nod down Arsenal’s left.