Predicted Arsenal XI to face Molde in the Europa League
Arsenal face a trip to Molde for their fourth group stage game in the Europa League. The Gunners are not in the best of forms after managing just one point from their last two league games and their last win came against Molde themselves. The only bliss has been their Europa League games where they have a 100% record.
Molde have done well since the defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the reverse fixture, with one win and one draw. Nonetheless, keeping in mind the reverse fixture, Arsenal are very much expected to edge this one out.
Team News
Mikel Arteta will have quite some injuries to manoeuvre through to select the personnel for this game. Bukayo Saka picked up a knock in the Leeds game and could well be ruled out for this one. Mohamed Elneny and Sead Kolsinac are in self isolation after being diagnosed with COVID.
Thomas Partey remains a doubt for this game as he still recovers from a thigh injury. Elsewhere in defence, Calum Chambers and Pablo Mari are also doubts for this one. Lastly, Gabriel Martinelli is still on his way to recovery.
Probable Arsenal XI vs Molde
Formation: 3-4-3
Bernd Leno (GK)
Leno has played almost all of their games this season and is expected to keep his place between the sticks.
Kieran Tierney (CB)
Returns to his left sided role in defence after playing the last one as full-back.
David Luiz (CB)
Should return for this one after missing out the last game entirely due to the birth of his child.
Shkodran Mustafi (CB)
His future may be far from sorted but he remains a constant in the Europa League games for now.
Cedric Soares (RWB)
Might be given the nod ahead of Bellerin, who played during the weekend.
Dani Ceballos (CM)
With midfield options thin, Ceballos could well start this one.
Joe Willock (CM)
The academy graduate has been a ray of shining light in this campaign. He has grabbed every opportunity he has been given and performed rather well.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles (LWB)
He is enjoying his new role as a left-wingback and should make a return to the line-up in place of Saka.
Reiss Nelson (LW)
One of the youngsters who might get his chance to impress. Cannot pass it up after claiming that he wants to fight for his place.
Eddie Nketiah (ST)
Will be deputising given the fact that the senior attackers might be rested for the fixture. Looks in good touch with the occasional goal in games.
Nicolas Pepe (RW)
Might be a controversial pick with what transpired at the weekend. Sent off for a headbutt, he is suspended for domestic competitions but not European games. Arteta could altogether exclude him but with the other forwards in no better shape, Pepe might just be given this game.
