This season for Arsenal feels like it’s sliding doors.
If the Gunners triumph, they will gain the necessary momentum to possibly get back on track in the race for the championship. If they lose, though, their season may already be over.
Mikel Arteta must therefore make the perfect team selection. Here, football.london examines the potential selections made by the Spaniard.
Goalkeeper – David Raya
He may have made an error in the first leg, but David Raya will be keen to make amends this time around. Keeping calm would be the first step.
Right back – Ben White
It was something of a surprise to see White come off after another superb attacking display against Aston Villa. But that guarantees he’ll be starting here tonight.
Centre back – William Saliba
Saliba had probably his worst game in an Arsenal shirt in the first leg. He’ll be desperate to put that right this time around.
Centre back – Gabriel
Gabriel was far from perfect in the first game either and looked shaky against Villa on Sunday. He needs a big performance to silence those who are doubting him after a superb season.
Left back – Takehiro Tomiyasu
The biggest debate is over Alex Zinchenko. The Ukrainian wasn’t as bad as people are saying against Aston Villa, but after playing so many minutes you can expect him to miss out. Jakub Kiwior had a stinker in the first leg, so Arteta might be tempted to take a risk and throw Takehiro Tomiyasu in for a first start since December.
Defensive midfield – Jorginho
It wasn’t Jorginho’s finest game in the first leg. Arsenal did look better when he came off. But in this kind of arena the Italian is Arteta’s go to man.
Central midfield – Declan Rice
Rice was another who wasn’t at his best against Bayern, and he was far from perfect against Villa too. He’s said this is the perfect game for a comeback though, so don’t be too surprised to see him rise to the occasion here
Central midfield – Martin Odegaard
There has been a slight injury concern about Martin Odegaard after Mikel Arteta said he felt something before coming off against Aston Villa. He should be fine to start this one after coming through training though.
Right wing – Bukayo Saka
Arsenal have won 88% of their games with Kai Havertz up front. Just 56% have been won with him in midfield. Now doesn’t feel like the time to take risks.
Centre forward – Kai Havertz
Arsenal have won 88% of their games with Kai Havertz up front. Just 56% have been won with him in midfield. Now doesn’t feel like the time to take risks.
Left wing – Gabriel Jesus
Arsenal’s most reliable performer in the Champions League is undoubtedly Gabriel Jesus. He got things level against Bayern in the first leg and could push Arsenal to victory in the second.
