Arsenal vs Leeds United preview: Team News, lineups and prediction
Leeds United will be looking to continue their positive start to the new Premier League season when they travel to face Arsenal on Saturday.
The Whites got off to a fantastic start with a victory over Everton on Monday night, as they took their first step towards building a crucial home record at Elland Road that could ultimately keep them in the top flight.
Lukas Nmecha’s late penalty saw Daniel Farke’s side claim all three points, but they will know that they have a much tougher assignment on their hands in the capital this weekend.
Mikel Arteta’s Gunners have been a fearsome proposition on home turf over the last few seasons, and they showed their credentials once again with a win over Manchester United in their opening game.
The newly-promoted side have nothing to lose when they head South for the Saturday evening encounter, and it would be a real statement of intent if they could take something from the game.
Form Guide
Arsenal – W, L, L, W, W
Leeds – W, D, D, D, W
Team News
News of Ethan Ampadu’s injury provided a huge blow to Leeds in midweek, and the skipper will be sorely missed for the trip to North London.
Jaka Bijol is available for selection after missing the opening clash as a result of a suspension that carried over from his time in Italy. The Slovenian is expected to come straight into the team and play a key role.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor could both be available for Farke’s matchday squad after finalising their moves.
From an Arsenal perspective, the attacking duo of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are both out with long-term injuries, while the game is likely to come soon for the imminent addition of Eberechi Eze.
Arsenal vs Leeds Predicted Lineups
Arsenal – Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice, Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli
Leeds – Perri, Bogle, Rodon, Bijol, Gudmundsson, Tanaka, Gruev, James, Stach, Gnonto, Calvert-Lewin
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 Leeds
Leeds showed plenty of promise against Everton, but they could be about to receive a harsh reminder of the reality of the Premier League here.
It will be a big ask for the visitors to stay in the game against Mikel Arteta’s charges, as they are well-drilled and difficult to break down.
The Whites may be able to breach the Arsenal defence, but their efforts are ultimately likely to be in vain.
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