The Emirates will play host to two teams who have struggled to strike any sort of early season form. Arsenal FC, who have had the worst possible start to a season, will be up against Bournemouth, who have performed decently, but sadly have nothing to show for as they sit in the 17th position.
The Cherries will have their hopes pinned on Jermaine Defoe, as the summer signing hasn’t quite had the impact many expected.
In team news, Koscielny labored on in France’s 4-0 victory against the Netherlands with a suspected ankle injury, so he might be the one big name that sits out. Sanchez too, might not feature so early on after the transfer debacle.
Bournemouth have no notable absentees and will come to London with a full-strength squad.
Arsenal have never lost to Bournemouth, but have only met them 5 times. If there is to be a first, the timing couldn’t have been any better, as Bournemouth can feast on a wounded giant who is on its way to recovery.
Let us look at Arsenal’s predicted lineup vs Bournemouth.
Goalkeeper:
Petr Cech, a nominee for Player of the Month in a rather disappointing month for Arsenal will be expected to start in goal.
Petr Cech
Defense:
Arsene Wenger will want to bounce back and the one place he’ll have to rectify is his defense. Mertesacker will be expected to play at the pivot, flanked by Mustafi and Monreal.
Mustafi – Mertesacker – Monreal
Wingbacks:
Arsenal’s Player of the Month for August, Sead Kolasinac will operate higher up the pitch, much to the fans liking. Bellerin will be expected to return at RWB.
Kolasinac – Bellerin
Midfield:
Could this be the game that sees Xhaka drop to the bench? We shall see. Arsene’s choices in central midfield are pretty much limited.
Ramsey – Elneny
Attack:
Ozil and Welbeck had decent international breaks, with both finding the back of the net. Lacazette too, could have joined that list; but Lemar was the ultimate opportunist in his case. Nonetheless, Arsene will go with the same strike force that gave him his first, and only victory of the season so far.
Welbeck – Lacazette – Ozil
Here’s Arsenal’s predicted lineup vs Bournemouth.
