Match Preview – Match Facts – Predicted Lineup
Arsenal travel to Napoli this week in search of securing progression to the Champions League Knock Out Stage.
Arsene Wenger’s side gave plenty at the weekend in their demanding 1-1 draw with Everton, and they are set to face in-form Manchester City at their fortress this weekend.
While Arsenal must lose by more than 3 goals to not progress, they must look to win or draw to secure top spot.
Another important factor is momentum. They must keep the ball flowing and turn on the style to keep their momentum going ahead of the weekend. What better way to prepare for a clash at the Etihad than with a convincing win in Naples.
But in saying that, there must be some tweaks to the lineup that faced Everton, to both provide some more solidity and offer rest to some stars that have given everything this season.
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While Wenger has stated that the match remains a priority in comparison to the weekend there may be a couple of changes, mainly of course in midfield and at the right-back position where Jenkinson is expected to reprise his role in the starting lineup with Wenger confirming Sagna remains out with a hamstring problem.
In midfield there are a number of changes Wenger could employ. Out wide Walcott could be given a start in place of Wilshere, while in the middle Flamini could link up with Arteta similar to in the reverse fixture where Arsenal blitzed the Italians in a remarkable first half performance. Ramsey did look in need of rest in the Everton match and this could offer him a breather before the big trip to the Etihad.
Ozil is expected to reprise his role in attacking midfield, while Rosicky could get a run on the left in place of Cazorla, although I expect the Spaniard will start this match with the Czech getting a run in the latter stages.
Predicted Lineup
Szczesny
Jenkinson Koscielny Mertesacker Gibbs
Arteta (c) Flamini
Ozil
Walcott Cazorla
Giroud
What are your thoughts and ideas? Comment below..
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