Arsenal prediction: Predicted Arsenal XI to face Crystal Palace
Mikel Arteta earned his first win as Arsenal head coach with a thoroughly deserved 2-0 win over Manchester United in the Premier League on Wednesday.
It looked nervy, to begin with, but as soon as Pepe’s goal went in, Arsenal looked like a different animal to the one that had been so dire all season.
The second half was about holding onto their advantage, conserving energy and looking to hit United on the counter. It was very similar to their previous home clash against Chelsea, although this time, they had a two-goal cushion. It was a game of two halves for Arteta’s men: One of endeavour and energy-sapping attacking play and one of digging deep and getting stuck in.
With a win under his belt, here is how Arteta and Arsenal could line-up against Palace
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Manager: Mikel Arteta
Predicted XI
1. Bernd Leno (GK)
The German has conceded in 17 of the 21 league games till now but he continues to be the undisputed first-choice between the sticks for the Gunners.
2. Ainsley Maitland-Niles (RB)
The youngster put in a stellar performance against Manchester United and must continue his good form against Palace.
3. David Luiz (CB)
The Brazil international will be expected to put a similar shift against Burnley after commanding the game and keeping a clean sheet against United.
4. Rob Holding (CB)
The centre-back was assessed ahead of the trip to Bournemouth last month but did not make the squad and was on the bench against Manchester United and is expected to start this game.
5. Sead Kolasinac (LB)
The Bosnian was a constant menace down the left-hand side, causing all sorts of problems to Aaron Wan-Bissaka with some marauding runs. His link-up play with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was excellent as well. He will surely start the next game.
6. Granit Xhaka (CM)
Xhaka has looked like a different player under Arteta and the Swiss international bossed the game in the centre of the park. He will be hoping to continue the same versus Palace.
7. Dani Ceballos (CM)
Dani Ceballos is back in training and will look to get some minutes under his belt. With Torreira back in contention, Ceballos will be under pressure to cement his place in the team.
8. Mesut Ozil (CAM)
Mesut Ozil put in a good shift against United and also played a key role in both of Arsenal’s goals. After struggling to break into the team this season, the German now has the backing of his manager to come good.
9. Nicolas Pepe (RW)
Nicolas Pepe was one of the players pushing for a start when Arteta came in, and the winger has impressed the new manager with a goal to his name against United. He will start on the right flank.
10. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (LW)
Aubameyang has been Arsenal’s player of the season so far. With the club pushing for a top-four finish, he should start against Palace.
11. Alexandre Lacazette (ST)
The Frenchman has been in fine form in the last few games and his link-up with Ozil and Aubameyang could once again be instrumental in Arsenal’s success against Crystal Palace.
