Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Crystal Palace – Premier League

Arsenal will visit Crystal Palace in Saturday’s late Premier League kick-off at Selhurst Park, aiming to bounce back after two consecutive league draws. While the Gunners secured a convincing 3-1 victory over the Eagles in their Carabao Cup clash earlier this week—led by Gabriel Jesus’ emphatic hat-trick—Mikel Arteta’s men have underwhelmed in the league of late, failing to convert dominance into results against Fulham and Everton.

Arteta will look to field his strongest possible lineup despite injuries, particularly at full-back, in order to reignite their league campaign. Here’s a detailed look at Arsenal’s predicted lineup for the crucial clash against Crystal Palace.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Crystal Palace (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper

GK: David Raya
David Raya remains Arteta’s preferred option between the sticks, despite criticism over his distribution in recent weeks. The Spaniard will be eager to secure a clean sheet after conceding avoidable goals in past fixtures. With Crystal Palace’s pace and physicality in attack, Raya will need sharp reflexes and better defensive support this time around.

Defenders

RB: Thomas Partey
With Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu sidelined, Thomas Partey continues to deputize at right-back. While he offers minimal attacking threat down the flank, his defensive work rate and ability to stifle players like Eberechi Eze will be crucial in this fixture.

CB: William Saliba
Saliba has been a defensive rock for Arsenal and will relish the physical battle against Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Frenchman’s strength, composure, and ability to win aerial duels make him a key figure in the Gunners’ backline.

CB: Gabriel Magalhães
Gabriel’s absence was sorely felt during the Carabao Cup victory, with Jakub Kiwior unable to match his defensive solidity. His return will help Arsenal combat Palace’s aerial and physical threats while also reinforcing their defensive organization.

LB: Jurrien Timber
Timber has showcased his versatility since arriving at Arsenal, performing admirably across multiple defensive positions. With injuries plaguing the full-back areas, Timber could slot in at left-back to provide balance, composure, and defensive security.

Midfielders

CM: Martin Odegaard
The Arsenal captain remains the creative heartbeat of Arteta’s midfield. Odegaard’s cameo from the bench midweek showcased his ability to dictate the tempo and unlock defenses. His vision and attacking instincts will be critical against a defensively compact Crystal Palace side.

CM: Mikel Merino
Mikel Merino has earned increased minutes following Partey’s redeployment at right-back. The Spaniard adds stability and technical quality to the midfield and could once again feature in the starting XI, offering a mix of physicality and playmaking ability.

CM: Declan Rice
Despite missing out midweek due to a minor concern, Declan Rice is expected to return for this fixture. Rice’s presence in the middle of the park provides Arsenal with much-needed defensive balance while allowing him to perform box-to-box duties. His ability to break up play and initiate attacks will be crucial.

Forwards

RW: Bukayo Saka
Arsenal’s “star boy” is going through a mini-drought, having failed to score in his last three league outings. However, Saka remains central to the Gunners’ attacking plans, with his pace, creativity, and crossing key to breaching Palace’s stubborn defense. A strong performance here could help Saka rediscover his scoring touch.

ST: Kai Havertz
While Gabriel Jesus scored a stunning hat-trick midweek, Kai Havertz is expected to retain his spot in the starting XI. Havertz has struggled for goals recently but offers intelligent movement and pressing, which could help stretch Palace’s backline and create space for Arsenal’s wide players.

LW: Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli was rested during the Carabao Cup clash, leaving him fresh and ready for Saturday’s trip to Selhurst Park. The Brazilian winger has a stellar record against Palace, having scored five goals in eight appearances against them. His directness and dribbling ability make him a constant threat.

Arsenal’s Predicted XI Summary

Key Battles to Watch

1. Thomas Partey vs. Eberechi Eze
   Partey’s defensive discipline will be tested as he faces the lively Eze, who is capable of creating chances and breaking through tight spaces.
2. William Saliba & Gabriel vs. Mateta
   Mateta’s physicality poses a significant challenge, but Saliba and Gabriel’s partnership gives Arsenal the edge in nullifying the threat.
3. Martin Odegaard vs. Palace’s Midfield
   Odegaard’s ability to find pockets of space and unlock defenses will be key to Arsenal breaking down Palace’s structured backline.

Conclusion

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal will head to Selhurst Park aiming to end their brief winless run in the Premier League and secure three crucial points. Despite their injuries at full-back, the Gunners’ predicted starting XI remains strong enough to overcome Crystal Palace, especially given the attacking threats of Saka, Martinelli, and Odegaard.

If Arsenal can replicate their Carabao Cup dominance and stay defensively solid, they’ll have every chance of earning a vital victory and reigniting their title challenge.

FAQs

1. Will Gabriel Jesus start against Crystal Palace?
Despite his hat-trick midweek, Jesus may feature from the bench, with Kai Havertz likely to retain his starting role.

2. Is Declan Rice fit for Gameweek 17?
Yes, Declan Rice is expected to return after missing the midweek clash due to a minor issue.

3. Who will start at right-back for Arsenal?
Thomas Partey will continue to fill in at right-back due to injuries to Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu.

4. Can Gabriel Martinelli continue his good form against Crystal Palace?
Yes, Martinelli has an excellent record against Palace, with five goals in eight matches against them.

5. Is Mikel Arteta expected to rotate his squad?
While Arteta may make minor adjustments, he is likely to stick with a strong XI to ensure a much-needed win.