[Image] Predicted 4-2-3-1 Arsenal XI to face Newcastle – Can Arteta successfully defend FA Cup title?

published

6/1/2021 11:45 PM

Predicted Arsenal XI to face Newcastle United in the FA Cup

Arsenal clinched a record 14th FA Cup title with a victory over London rivals Chelsea last season. The Gunners will now start their title defence with a third-round tie against Newcastle United at home on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta’s side have struggled for form in the Premier League this season but are currently on a high after three consecutive wins over Chelsea, Brighton and West Brom. Arsenal will be hopeful of continuing their rumination when Steve Bruce’s side make the trip to the Emirates for the FA Cup fixture this weekend.

Newcastle have lost each of their last three away games against Arsenal in the FA Cup by a comprehensive 3-0 scoreline and could be up against it once again this time around.

Team News

Arteta doesn’t have too many injury concerns heading into the domestic cup fixture against Newcastle on Saturday. Gabriel Magalhaes is ruled out as he continues his recovery from Covid-19. Thomas Partey has a thigh injury and is doubtful to make the squad for the FA Cup tie.

fbl eur c3 group arsenal dundalk — Arsenal’s English midfielder Joe Willock (2R) celebrates with teammates after he scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 1st round day 2 Group B football match between Arsenal and Dundalk at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 29, 2020. (Photo by Glyn KIRK / AFP) (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Predicted Arsenal XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Bernd Leno (GK)

Runarsson came under scrutiny for his errors in the EFL Cup game last month, so Arteta might as well continue with his undisputed No.1 between the sticks.

Cedric Soares (RB)

The Portuguese international hasn’t started a game in the PL this season but has featured regularly in the cup fixtures and in the Europa League.

Rob Holding (CB)

The former Bolton man has established himself as a key cog in the Gunners’ backline under Arteta and should find himself among the starters once again for this one.

David Luiz (CB)

The veteran might have lost his status a regular starter in the Premier League but he remains a key squad player at the back for Arteta’s side.

fbl eur c3 group arsenal dundalk 1 — Arsenal’s English striker Eddie Nketiah celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 1st round day 2 Group B football match between Arsenal and Dundalk at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 29, 2020. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Kieran Tierney (LB)

Tierney has been top class for Arsenal of late and should start this one.

Mohamed Elneny (CDM)

The Egyptian has enjoyed a rejuvenation under Arteta in North London this season and could be set for a start in the FA Cup tie at the weekend.

Dani Ceballos (CM)

The Real Madrid loanee hasn’t been at his sparkling best this season and this could be a good opportunity for him to prove his worth.

Nicolas Pepe (RW)

The Ivorian was axed from Arsenal’s starting line-ups for the last couple of league fixtures but Arteta should give him a crack in the FA Cup.

fbl eng pr arsenal chelsea — Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta gestures on the touchline during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium in London on December 26, 2020. (Getty Images)

Gabriel Martinelli (LW)

The youngster has put in some splendid displays following his return from injury and should start the cup tie against Newcastle.

Emile Smith Rowe (CAM)

The academy starlet has been instrumental in Arsenal’s recent resurgence and Arteta should continue to back him with regular game time.

Alexandre Lacazette (ST)

The Frenchman hasn’t started as often as he would have liked this season but Arteta should definitely consider him in the starting XI on Saturday.