Arsenal vs Manchester City: Predicted lineup in Arteta’s biggest match yet

Arsenal’s midfield vs Manchester City

I am never in doubt when it comes to the midfield and it doesn’t change this week. Despite the signing of Jorginho on deadline day in January, his full debut won’t come in this match.

Instead, the holding midfielder of choice will be Thomas Partey. He was the best player on the pitch by a country mile against Brentford. Not only is he great at winning back possession for his side, but his passes in the opposition’s half are invaluable and he will need to control the play more than ever against City, who possess a lot of firepower in the midfield.

UPDATE

Thomas Partey will miss the match. Therefore, it’s likely Jorginho will start instead. Click here for more information.

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Then, it will be Granit Xhaka. The Swiss international has improved tenfold this season and previously, he would’ve been a liability in games like this. However, Arteta trusts him to continue his solid form against Arsenal’s main title rivals. He’ll be up for a very physical, energetic and gruelling match.

Of course, bridging the gap between midfield and attack, it’ll be the captain Martin Odegaard. Odegaard has been a little more quiet in recent matched but this only points to a masterclass match in this one. The Norwegian maestro, despite not being at his best, played a handful of key passes against Brentford. He’ll hope the attackers are more prolific in this match to finish his chances.

This lineup continues on the next slide.