Atalanta vs Arsenal: Team News & Jesus Start
The Gunners travel to Italy for a crucial Europa League clash against Atalanta on Thursday night. With the group stage nearing its end, Arsenal needs a victory to secure a place in the knockout stages, and with Gabriel Jesus potentially returning to the starting lineup, they have a good chance to do just that.
Team News
Arsenal
- Gabriel Jesus: The Brazilian striker returned to training this week after a knee injury and is in contention to start. He could be a game-changer for Arsenal, bringing pace and a goal threat back to the attack.
- Reiss Nelson: The winger is recovering from a hamstring injury and is unlikely to feature.
- Emile Smith Rowe: The attacking midfielder is still sidelined with a groin injury.
- Mohamed Elneny: The midfielder is a long-term absentee with a knee injury.
- Thomas Partey: The midfielder is likely to be available after missing the weekend's Premier League game due to suspension.
Atalanta
- Duván Zapata: The Colombian forward is a doubt for the game due to a knee injury. His absence would be a significant blow for Atalanta, as he is their leading scorer.
- Teun Koopmeiners: The midfielder is suspended for the match.
- Hans Hateboer: The right-back has been ruled out with a groin injury.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Atalanta: Musso; Toloi, Palomino, Djimsiti; Zappacosta, De Roon, Ederson, Maehle; Pasalic, Lookman, Muriel.
Arsenal: Ramsdale; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tierney; Xhaka, Partey; Saka, Odegaard, Martinelli; Jesus.
Key Matchups
- Gabriel Jesus vs Atalanta's Defense: If fit, Jesus will be looking to make a statement in his potential return to the starting lineup. Atalanta's defense has been vulnerable this season, so this could be a good opportunity for the Brazilian to score.
- Martin Ødegaard vs Koopmeiners: The absence of Koopmeiners could leave a void in the Atalanta midfield. Ødegaard's creativity and vision will be crucial for Arsenal in exploiting any gaps in the Atalanta defense.
- Bukayo Saka vs Maehle: This is a battle of two talented wingers. Saka's pace and dribbling ability will be a threat to Maehle, who will need to be on his toes to contain him.
Conclusion
This match promises to be a fascinating encounter between two attacking sides. Arsenal will be looking to build on their recent resurgence, while Atalanta will be aiming to bounce back from their recent poor form. With Jesus potentially returning to the lineup, the Gunners have a good chance of securing a crucial victory.
Keep an eye on the team news closer to kickoff for any late changes.
