Arsenal vs Leeds Preview: Predicted Lineups Amid Injury Concerns and Key Decisions
Arsenal are preparing to face Leeds United in what promises to be a tightly contested Premier League fixture at the Emirates Stadium this Saturday evening. Both teams have started the season with victories and will be keen to maintain their unbeaten records. Mikel Arteta’s side managed a narrow 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford in their opener, a result that highlighted both resilience and the need for sharper attacking play. Leeds, under Daniel Farke, impressed with a late 1-0 victory over Everton, secured by Lukas Nmecha’s decisive penalty, signaling that they are a side capable of pulling off results against top-flight opponents.
As the Gunners prepare for this clash, injury concerns are dictating some key lineup decisions. Star forward Kai Havertz is sidelined with a knee injury, leaving Arteta without one of his main attacking options. Defender Ben White and midfielder Christian Norgaard have also missed recent training sessions, adding to the uncertainty. Gabriel Jesus remains out long-term following his ACL injury from January, while summer signing Eberechi Eze has yet to officially complete his registration, though his inclusion in the squad is expected soon. These setbacks mean Arteta must carefully balance experience, fitness, and tactical demands when naming his starting eleven.
In his pre-match press conference, Arteta addressed the squad situation, confirming Havertz will definitely be unavailable, while Norgaard is expected to miss around a week. Ben White’s status remains under observation, and Jurrien Timber’s training workload has been reduced after a long spell on the sidelines. Arteta praised Gabriel Jesus for his progress in recovery, emphasizing the striker’s strong mindset and readiness to return in robust condition. The Gunners’ predicted starting lineup for the match includes Raya in goal, with a back four of Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, and Calafiori. The midfield is likely to feature Zubimendi and Rice, while the attacking trio will include Saka, Odegaard, and Martinelli, supported by striker Viktor Gyokeres. Key substitutes such as Trossard, Merino, Madueke, and Mosquera are expected to provide depth from the bench.
Leeds will also contend with absences, most notably their captain Ethan Ampadu, who is out with a knee injury sustained in the season opener. Jayden Bogle has recovered and is expected to feature again, while Jaka Bijol returns from suspension. New signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin remains unlikely to play as he regains match fitness. The Whites will need to adapt their approach accordingly, balancing defensive stability with attacking ambition to challenge Arsenal on their home turf.
With both teams eager to maintain their perfect start, Saturday’s clash promises tactical battles, individual duels, and potentially dramatic moments. Arteta and Farke must navigate injuries, squad rotations, and strategic choices carefully, as any lapse could tip the scales in this early-season encounter. Fans can expect a competitive match as Arsenal aim to build momentum and Leeds seek to assert themselves as a resilient Premier League side.
