Arsenal v Atalanta: Team News and Lineup
The Gunners welcome Atalanta to the Emirates Stadium on Thursday night in a crucial Group A clash in the UEFA Europa League. With both sides locked in a tight race for the top spot, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Here's a look at the team news and potential starting lineups for both sides:
Arsenal Team News and Lineup
Injuries:
- Thomas Partey remains a doubt after a muscle injury sustained against Leicester. He will be assessed ahead of the match.
- Granit Xhaka and Gabriel Jesus are both expected to be available after missing the Leicester game through suspension.
- Emile Smith Rowe is still sidelined with a groin injury and is expected to be out for a few weeks.
Potential Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- GK: Aaron Ramsdale
- RB: Ben White
- CB: William Saliba
- CB: Gabriel Magalhaes
- LB: Kieran Tierney
- CM: Granit Xhaka
- CM: Martin Odegaard
- RW: Bukayo Saka
- CAM: Gabriel Martinelli
- LW: Martin Ødegaard
- ST: Eddie Nketiah
Key Factors:
- Partey's fitness: His presence in midfield would provide much-needed defensive solidity, especially against a potent Atalanta attack.
- Jesus' return: The Brazilian striker will bring a much-needed goal threat up front. His link-up play and movement will be crucial for Arsenal's attacking success.
- Home advantage: Playing at the Emirates will give Arsenal a psychological edge. The fans will be vital in pushing the team to a crucial victory.
Atalanta Team News and Lineup
Injuries:
- Hans Hateboer, Davide Zappacosta, and Rafael Toloi are all ruled out with injury.
- Duvan Zapata is expected to return after missing the weekend's Serie A match with a hamstring injury.
Potential Lineup (3-4-1-2):
- GK: Juan Musso
- CB: Merih Demiral
- CB: José Luis Palomino
- CB: Berat Djimsiti
- RWB: Joakim Mæhle
- CM: Marten de Roon
- CM: Teun Koopmeiners
- LWB: Remo Freuler
- AM: Ruslan Malinovskyi
- ST: Ademola Lookman
- ST: Duvan Zapata (if fit)
Key Factors:
- Zapata's return: The Colombian striker is a proven goalscorer and his presence will be a major boost for Atalanta's attack.
- Attacking threat: Atalanta's attack is dynamic and unpredictable, capable of creating chances from any position. Arsenal's defense will need to be on high alert.
- Away from home: Atalanta's away form has been inconsistent this season. Arsenal will be looking to capitalize on this and exploit any weaknesses.
Conclusion
This match promises to be an exciting and intense encounter between two in-form sides. Arsenal will be looking to secure a vital victory to keep their top spot hopes alive, while Atalanta will be determined to get a result on the road and push for qualification.
Who do you think will win this crucial clash?
