Get ready for a thrilling Premier League clash as Arsenal FC takes on Chelsea, but here's the burning question: Who will Mikel Arteta choose to lead the attack? With key players returning from injury and others fighting to keep their spot, this lineup is anything but predictable. And this is the part most people miss: the No.10 position is where the real drama unfolds.
Bukayo Saka, who celebrated with his teammates at full-time, appears to have dodged a serious injury scare, ensuring his place in the starting XI. However, the spotlight falls on Mikel Arteta's tactical dilemma: Martin Odegaard, fresh from recovering from a knee injury, is back in contention after his cameo against Spurs. But Eberechi Eze, the summer signing who stole the show with two goals in the north London derby, is eager to prove his worth. Is it time for Arteta to shake things up and field both Odegaard and Eze, or will he stick to his guns?
One bold strategy could see Eze deployed on the left wing, allowing both playmakers to start. Yet, Arteta has been hesitant to pair them in recent months. More likely, one will take the No.10 role, with Gabriel Martinelli's blistering pace favored over Leandro Trossard on the left to exploit Chelsea's defensive vulnerabilities. Speaking of defense, Piero Hincapie's stellar performances make him the frontrunner to start at left-back over Riccardo Calafiori.
But here's where it gets controversial: Ben White's availability remains uncertain after missing the derby with a minor injury. Arteta's cryptic 'let’s see' response on Friday only adds to the speculation. Meanwhile, Max Dowman, recovering from an ankle ligament injury, featured for the Under-21s in their loss to Ipswich, signaling his gradual return.
Here’s how Arsenal could line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation: Raya in goal; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, and Hincapie in defense; Zubimendi and Rice anchoring the midfield; Saka, Odegaard, and Martinelli in attack; and Gyokeres leading the line. Notably, Merino is injured, while Havertz and White remain doubts.
Mark your calendars for 4:30 PM GMT on Sunday, March 1, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium. Catch all the action live on Sky Sports. What’s your take? Should Arteta start both Odegaard and Eze, or is Martinelli the key to unlocking Chelsea’s defense? Let us know in the comments!
