Premier League champion Arsenal continues its title defense with a trip to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, Oct. 18. Mikel Arteta's side is relatively healthy and could receive a huge boost soon with one of the best center backs in the world nearing a return to action.
William Saliba's season-long absence won't be ending just yet and he's joined on the sidelines by Christos Tzolis and Piero Hincapie, with Martin Zubimendi also a doubt.
The Gunners have lost just once this season and will enter Sunday's game in second place. There's only a few health issues within the Arsenal squad as they take on a side with just one win all season.
Here is how Arsenal could line up against Nottingham Forest:
Arsenal predicted lineup vs. Nottingham Forest
- Goalkeeper: Raya
- Defense: Timber, Gabriel, Konsa, Calafiori
- Midfield: Rice, Guimarães
- Attacking midfield: Eze, Ødegaard, Saka
- Forward: Havertz
Even with two world-class defenders unavailable, Arteta has
plenty of options to choose from at the back. Lewis-Skelly and Ben White are also in contention at the full-back spots but the Spaniard goes with stability over mobility at those spots.
Kai Havertz is the safe choice up top with Viktor Gyökeres still struggling to find his top form. Martin Zubimendi faces a late fitness test, but it doesn't make much sense to push him.
Arsenal team news vs. Nottingham Forest
- Out: Saliba, Tzolis, Hincapie
- Questionable: Zubimendi
- Suspended: N/A
Will William Saliba play vs. Nottingham Forest?
The French defender has not seen the field since suffering a major back injury at the World Cup. While he won't make it back in time to face Forest, he seems to be on track with his rehab, according to Arteta. “I think next week we have another MRI with him to see how the healing process is at the moment, but every sign so far has been very, very positive,” the Arsenal boss said on Friday. “It will be great to have him."
Nottingham Forest vs. Arsenal time, TV
- Date: Sunday, Oct. 18
- Time: 11:30 a.m. ET
- Location: City Ground (Nottinghamshire, England)
- TV/stream: NBCSN, Peacock (WATCH HERE)
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Arsenal predicted lineup vs. Nottingham Forest: Projected XI, team news
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