Gauging Mikel Arteta’s starting line-ups once used to be a straightforward task, but those days are long gone.
The recent decisions made by the Spanish manager have caught everyone off guard, hinting at a new era of unpredictability.
Arteta’s latest maneuver, deploying Thomas Partey in defense while sidelining Gabriel, orchestrated a formation blend encompassing both 3-6-1 and 4-3-3 structures.
Post-match, he issued a cautionary message, suggesting that this season might hold more unforeseen tactics in store.
While Arteta may relish the freedom to experiment, precision becomes paramount, given Manchester City’s unblemished Premier League run.
Football.london dives into Arteta’s potential approach for the upcoming showdown with Crystal Palace on Monday evening.
The eagerly anticipated clash at Selhurst Park marks the initiation of the Ramsdale-Raya saga, with the former recently acquired by Arsenal.
Although Ramsdale seems poised to retain his spot, history reveals Arteta’s swift elevation of the English keeper two years back, displacing Bernd Leno. Hence, Raya’s emergence wouldn’t be entirely startling.
Arsenal’s fortunes have been marred by Jurrien Timber’s injury, potentially truncating his season. However, the blow might be cushioned by the timely resurgence of Alex Zinchenko.
The Ukrainian midfielder, having undergone week-long training and featured in an undisclosed friendly match against Luton, is anticipated to make a comeback.
Although a full 90-minute display might be unrealistic, his inclusion from the start is within the realm of expectation.
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