Arsenal will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers when they take on Aston Villa away from home at Villa Park in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The Gunners will head into the match against Villa on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Wolves away from home in the league.
Mikel Arteta’s side will be determined to pick up all three points from the encounter and maintain their challenge for the Champions League places.
Bernd Leno is suspended, and Mat Ryan is likely to come in his place. The Australia international goalkeeper – signed on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion – trained on Friday and appears to be fully fit now.
David Luiz is suspended for the game against Villa, which will open the door for Gabriel to come in.
The Brazilian defender – described as “a player of high quality” by Arsenal Technical Director Edu on the club’s official website in September 2020 – has been out of the team in recent times, but suspension to Luiz has opened the door for him.
Emile Smith Rowe is likely to retain his place in the team, meaning that Martin Odegaard will have to wait for his start.
The 22-year-old attacking midfielder – described as “an exceptional talent” by Edu on the Gunners’ official website in January 2021 – has made one substitute appearance in the Premier League since his loan move from Real Madrid last month.
This is how Arsenal could line up against Villa away from home at Villa Park in the Premier League today:
Arsenal Predicted XI: Ryan; Bellerin, Holding, Gabriel, Cedric; Partey, Xhaka; Saka, Smith Rowe, Pepe; Lacazette
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
