As Mikel Arteta prepares to travel to Brentford for his first Carabao Cup fixture of the season, here’s the Arsenal predicted lineup vs Brentford.
Arsenal predicted lineup vs Brentford
Starting off in goal, which has been a difficult choice to predict of late, I think Mikel Arteta will go for Aaron Ramsdale. The English shot-stopper was on the bench for the last three matches but given this is a cup game and Mikel Arteta has indicated his desire to rotate goalkeepers, Ramsdale should be given a chance to prove himself against Brentford.
He will be covered by a defensive partnership of Gabriel and Jakub Kiwior. The Poland international has been needing a start all season, so this could be a good opportunity to rest William Saliba, particularly since he covered a lot of ground against Spurs.
At right back, Takehiro Tomiyasu will come in to replace Ben White. The England international looked uncomfortable against Spurs. He wasn’t injured but he could do with some rest, with Tomiyasu providing sufficient backup. At left-back, the usual spot remains for Alex Zinchenko.
In defensive midfield, Declan Rice is doubtful after he was subbed off at half time against Spurs. I do think Arteta could opt for Mohamed Elneny, even if only to rest Rice. He will join a midfield three featuring Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz.
Things look positive for Gabriel Martinelli, who I hope is able to return to action on Wednesday night. However, if he is used, I assume it will be from the bench. Instead, Emile Smith Rowe could play on the left as he was used as a sub against Spurs. Gabriel Jesus should start as the striker since Nketiah was frankly awful and Bukayo Saka will start as the right-winger.
Arsenal predicted lineup vs Brentford: Ramsdale, Tomiyasu, Gabriel, Kiwior, Zinchenko, Elneny, Havertz, Odegaard; Saka, Jesus, Smith Rowe