Will Mikel Merino start? | Arsenal's predicted lineup against Brighton
Two out of four Premier League The teams with a 100% chance of starting the new season will meet at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday 31 August at 12:30 UK time. Arsenal host Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Gunners come into this match after a convincing 2-0 victory over Aston Villa away from home as the Seagulls defeated Manchester United in the 90th minute at the Amex Stadium.
Here's how Arsenal could line up:
GOALIE: With Aaron Ramsdale Following his move to Southampton, there is no doubt that David Raya will be a starter unless unforeseen fitness problems arise for the former Brentford star. He will keep his place in goal against Brighton. New signing Neto is not yet available.
DEFENDERS: Jurrien Timber started against Aston Villa. He is likely to be called up again at left-back with Riccarso Calafiori and Oleksandro Zinchenko unavailable.
Ben White will be on the right side once again as Guillermo Saliba and Gabriel will be Arsenal's central defenders. Takehiro Tomiyasu is still out of action and does not seem likely to return soon.
Merino punch
MIDFIELDERS: Thomas Partey and Declan Rice The team will play in a double pivot against Villa and Arteta is likely to stick with the duo. The Ghanaian appears to be finding his way back to fitness after an injury-plagued 2023/24 season, while Rice is a sure starter.
Martin Odegaard will be the team's number 10. He is an indispensable figure in Arsenal and will be the captain against Brighton.
Mikel Merino will not be a starter in the near future Mikel Arteta Confirmed in his pre-match press conference The midfielder is facing 'weeks' out with a fractured shoulder. Merino suffered the injury in his first training session and it is a big blow for Arsenal.
FORWARDS: Bukayo Saka He will play on the right wing. He has scored one goal and provided two assists in the first two Premier League games of the season and will be looking to add to his tally against Brighton.
Leandro Trossard is pushing for a recall after scoring off the bench against Villa, however, Arteta can keep pace with Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank and use Trossard as a weapon to use in the second half.
Gabriel Jesus is injured once again and will miss the visit of Brighton. Kai Havertz will take his place as striker and lead Arsenal's attack this weekend.
Here's a look at how Arsenal could line up on paper:
