Arsenal vs Shakthar Donetsk
We’ve had a promising start in this competition, securing a draw against Atalanta and a victory over Paris Saint-Germain. However, we aim to bounce back from our recent 2-0 loss to Bournemouth in the Premier League.
The Lineup:
Arteta may make changes to the team following the recent loss. However, the back four is expected to remain unchanged unless Timber returns from his muscular injury. In midfield, Jorginho could replace Thomas Partey, and Kai Havertz may also join the midfield. Arteta experimented with a three-man midfield of Rice, Merino, and Partey against Bournemouth but found it difficult to function effectively.
Havertz could be deployed in midfield to provide creativity. Ethan Nwaneri is another option, but Arteta indicated on Monday that he is unlikely to start.
Arsenal is one of only six teams to have maintained a clean sheet in the UEFA Champions League this season. David Raya’s exceptional goalkeeping has played a significant role in this achievement.
Calafiori has been an invaluable asset to the team since his debut. While a case could be made for resting him, Arsenal’s performance would likely benefit more from keeping him in the lineup.
Havertz has been a standout player for Arsenal this season, as evidenced by his goal against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. If Arsenal want to win. He needs to be in this XI. Whilst accommodating Jesus maybe difficult Havertz playing in the middle and drifting into that CF role would make a lot of sense here.
Injury Update:
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard remains sidelined due to a knee injury sustained while playing for Norway in September. Mikel Arteta’s team may also be without Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber, as both players missed training on Monday.
However Mikel in his pressor stated that “They are closer and both progressing really well. Martin is still not fit. With Bukayo, let’s see how he feels today and in the training session we have later on.”
As for Jurrien Timber, Mikel added: “He’s going to be close. We have to see how he deals with training with the whole group. It was a muscular injury.” Could be the case that he is holding his cards very close to this chest once more. Given the disaster that was Bournemouth on the weekend.
Predictions:
Given Arsenal’s home advantage and recent form, they are slight favorites to win this match. However, Shakhtar Donetsk is a capable side and could cause an upset. It promises to be a thrilling encounter with both teams keen to get as many points in the league phase as possible.
Scoreline: Arsenal 2 – Shakthar 0
POTM: Kai Havertz
Suggested Bet: Arsenal WIN & Over 6 Corners.
Written by Reekesh Somaroo
For Art of Analysis