Arsenal Lineup Prediction: Carabao Cup Clash Against Preston
With the Carabao Cup third round upon us, Arsenal face a tricky test against Championship side Preston North End at the Emirates Stadium. While the Gunners will be looking to progress to the next round, manager Mikel Arteta will likely be considering squad rotation to keep key players fresh for the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester United.
Here's our predicted starting lineup for Arsenal:
Goalkeeper:
- Matt Turner: With Aaron Ramsdale likely to be rested, the American goalkeeper will get a chance to impress between the sticks. Turner has shown his capabilities in previous cup outings, and this game presents another opportunity to showcase his talent.
Defense:
- Ben White: A regular starter in the Premier League, White is likely to get a rest here.
- Rob Holding: Expect the experienced center-back to slot in alongside Gabriel Magalhães, providing a solid defensive base.
- Gabriel Magalhães: While Gabriel has been a key player in the backline, Arteta might give him a breather, allowing for a chance for other defenders to gain valuable experience.
- Kieran Tierney: The Scottish left-back could be given a start, having not featured regularly in recent weeks. He provides attacking width and solid defensive cover down the left flank.
Midfield:
- Mohamed Elneny: The Egyptian midfielder offers valuable experience and stability in midfield. With Thomas Partey potentially rested, Elneny will be a crucial presence.
- Granit Xhaka: The Swiss midfielder is another reliable performer who can control the tempo of the game and provide defensive cover.
- Fabio Vieira: This could be a chance for Vieira to shine. The Portuguese midfielder has impressed in recent outings and will be looking to showcase his attacking prowess.
Attack:
- Reiss Nelson: The winger has been showing glimpses of his potential and could be given a start in this game. His pace and dribbling ability could be a threat to Preston's defense.
- Eddie Nketiah: The young striker will likely lead the line for the Gunners. Nketiah has proved his goalscoring ability and will be keen to add to his tally.
- Gabriel Martinelli: The Brazilian winger offers directness and pace down the left flank. He could be another option to consider, looking to make a strong impact in the final third.
Substitutes:
- Runar Alex Runarsson: Provides backup for Turner in goal.
- William Saliba: A strong contender to replace Gabriel in central defense.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu: Could feature at right-back if Ben White is rested.
- Jorginho: Experience and composure in midfield.
- Emile Smith Rowe: Offers creativity and attacking threat.
- Bukayo Saka: A key attacking player who could be brought on for a late impact.
- Leandro Trossard: Versatility and attacking flair.
Key Players to Watch:
- Fabio Vieira: The young Portuguese midfielder is full of potential and could be a game-changer.
- Reiss Nelson: A chance for Nelson to make a real impact and stake his claim for a more prominent role in the team.
- Eddie Nketiah: The striker will be aiming to continue his goalscoring form.
Prediction:
Arsenal are the clear favorites going into this match. While Preston will be looking to cause an upset, the Gunners' superior quality and depth should allow them to progress to the next round. Expect a comfortable victory for Arsenal, with a scoreline of 3-1.
This lineup is just a prediction, and Arteta could opt for different players depending on the team's form and fitness. However, it provides a good indication of the starting XI that could feature in the Carabao Cup tie against Preston.
Remember to keep an eye on the official Arsenal website for the latest team news and confirmed starting lineups.