Arsenal Predicted XI vs Manchester United: Gyökeres & Zubimendi Primed for Debuts as Arteta Weighs Trossard Decision
Arsenal are gearing up for a blockbuster start to their 2025/26 Premier League campaign as they travel to Old Trafford to face long-time rivals Manchester United this Sunday. All eyes will be on Mikel Arteta’s side as two of the Gunners’ high-profile summer signings – striker Viktor Gyökeres and midfielder Martin Zubimendi – are expected to make their competitive debuts in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the opening weekend.
Squad Update
Arteta provided encouraging injury news in his pre-match press conference. Forward Leandro Trossard, who sustained a groin injury during pre-season against Tottenham, is undergoing late fitness checks. While his participation is still uncertain, the Spaniard suggested he could feature if he completes a full training session on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Arsenal will be without Gabriel Jesus, who continues his recovery from a long-term knee injury, meaning Gyökeres is almost certain to spearhead the attack.
Arteta on his squad:
- On Trossard: “He’s feeling much better. If he trains tomorrow, he should be fit to play.”
- On Gyökeres: “He’s settling well. He hasn’t had full sessions yet, but the impact he’s making is clear.”
- On Zubimendi: “He’s integrated seamlessly and already influencing the team in a big way.”
Predicted Formation – 4-2-3-1
- Goalkeeper: David Raya is expected to start between the sticks as Arsenal’s No.1.
- Defense: Jurrien Timber at right-back, with the dependable pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães in central defense. On the left, new signing Riccardo Calafiori is tipped to get the nod ahead of youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly.
- Midfield: New arrival Martin Zubimendi is set to partner Declan Rice in a deep-lying midfield pivot, providing solidity and balance. This allows captain Martin Ødegaard to operate further forward, dictating play in his favored creative role.
- Attack: Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli will likely stretch United’s defense on the wings, while Gyökeres makes his Premier League debut as the central striker.
Predicted XI
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Ødegaard, Martinelli; Gyökeres
Key Talking Points
- Debut Spotlight: Both Gyökeres and Zubimendi will be under the microscope as fans assess how quickly they can adapt to Arsenal’s system in a high-pressure clash.
- Trossard’s Fitness Battle: If cleared, Trossard could provide a valuable option from the bench or even start, depending on Martinelli’s condition.
- Jesus’ Absence: Without Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal will lean heavily on Gyökeres’ physical presence and finishing ability.
This encounter will not only set the tone for Arsenal’s season but also serve as an early test of their title ambitions against a top-four rival.
