Arsenal vs Brentford: Predicted XI as Arteta Makes Key Change and Saliba Remains a Major Doubt

Arsenal vs Brentford: Predicted XI as Arteta Makes Key Change and Saliba Remains a Major Doubt

Arsenal return to Premier League action tonight as they host Brentford at the Emirates, but Mikel Arteta’s preparations have been disrupted by fresh injury concerns. William Saliba remains a major doubt after missing the draw against Chelsea with a knock picked up in training. With Gabriel Magalhaes already sidelined, the Gunners may be forced into another reshuffle at the back as they push to maintain momentum in a busy December schedule.

Arteta has been weighing his defensive options carefully, and it appears Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie could continue as the centre-back pairing. The manager hinted that Saliba is only “days away” from a return, but tonight may come too soon for the Frenchman. Fortunately, Arsenal still have Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber available, while Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly offer depth in the full-back positions.

Further upfield, the Gunners are monitoring Leandro Trossard, who remains doubtful after being forced off against Bayern Munich last week. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres is pushing for a full return after making his comeback on Sunday, although his competition—Mikel Merino—has made a strong case for staying in the lineup. Kai Havertz, however, remains unavailable and is still “weeks away” despite initial hopes of an earlier return following knee surgery.

The good news for Arsenal fans is the return of Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli, all of whom have recovered from recent setbacks. Odegaard in particular will be eager to reclaim his starting spot, especially with Eberechi Eze having logged heavy minutes since the November international break. With Aston Villa looming at the weekend, Arteta may also choose to give Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka reduced workloads to keep his stars fresh for tougher challenges ahead.

Based on current availability, Arsenal are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 with David Raya in goal, Timber, Mosquera, Hincapie, and Calafiori forming the back four. Odegaard, Zubimendi, and Rice should anchor midfield, while Saka, Merino, and Madueke lead the attack. The Gunners will kick off against Brentford tonight at 7:30 PM, aiming to secure another vital three points in the title race.