Mikel Arteta could ring in the changes to the Arsenal lineup and bring in many of the fringe stars for the clash against Bodo/Glimt.
Arsenal are expected to field a much-changed lineup from the victory over Tottenham at the weekend. Their next opponents are Bodo/Glimt from Norway. And Mikel Arteta is expected to bring in many of his fringe stars in place of the Premier League regulars.
It is difficult to accurately predict the starting lineup as there are plenty of changes expected. But one player who might get the nod could be Reiss Nelson, who has been training since recovering from a quad injury.
Arteta had a few words for the attacker during his pre-match press conference. He said, “After the spell that he had last year on loan, we wanted him back to see if there are any changes and there’s a prospect we can take to the next level.”
“We think the potential is there, and we’ve seen something special in Reiss. He’s been a part of our academy system, and now he will have an opportunity. He’s been out for almost three months with an injury. He’s back now, fully fit, and ready to play. He just needs minutes now.”
Arsenal vs Bodo/Glimt Preview: Probable Lineups, Prediction, Tactics, Team News & Key Stats
Mohamed Elneny and Emile Smith Rowe remain sidelined for significant periods. Meanwhile, Cedric Soares has been involved in full training sessions, and his availability could help Arteta tweak his team significantly.
Takehiro Tomiyasu could be utilised at the heart of the Arsenal defence alongside Rob Holding if the Portuguese right-back is available. If not, one of Ben White or Gabriel Magalhaes could start there.
Kieran Tierney will replace Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back. Midfield is another area where the manager may have to tinker hard before making his selections.
With Elneny out, the options are limited to playing alongside Albert Sambi Lokonga. There is a chance academy ace Matt Smith could start. However, Arteta might opt for Fabio Vieira and Martin Odegaard on either side of the Belgian midfielder.
Eddie Nketiah is certain to lead the line for Arsenal against Bodo/Glimt in place of Gabriel Jesus. Nelson could come in for Gabriel Martinelli, while Marquinhos will likely replace Bukayo Saka on the right flank. Arsenal’s regular Premier League starters are expected to be on the bench as an option if needed.
Predicted Arsenal XI: Turner; Cedric, Holding, Tomiyasu, Tierney; Odegaard, Lokonga, Vieira; Marquinhos, Nketiah, Nelson
