Arsenal predicted XI vs Manchester City: Arteta seeks three points

Hector Bellerin

Mikel Arteta will deploy Bellerin as the right-sided full-back. Bellerin has an abundance of pace and is able to keep up with the City full-backs, while also getting forward himself whenever the opportunity arrises, which may be limited against a team like City.

Granit Xhaka

I think it would make sense for Arsenal to play Granit Xhaka as opposed to Ceballos, while keeping the Spaniard on the bench to bring on when a more attacking element is required. Granit Xhaka will be key to dictating the play from a deeper position than usual.

His defensive work and discipline has immensely improved under Arteta, so fans can feel safe in this regard. Xhaka is often the first name on the team sheet and this won’t change against Guardiola’s men.

Thomas Partey

This would be quite the statement to make. Arteta is not often the type to throw a player into the starting XI straight away, as we have seen with William Saliba’s stagnated start. However, given Arsenal’s lack of midfield options, Thomas Partey could easily get the nod in this match.

Partey can play as a box-to-box midfielder, which will help Arteta as he looks to bring some balance to his midfield. I have a feeling that the likes of Aubameyang will also benefit from Partey’s attacking input in this match, which can only mean one thing; goals.

Bukayo Saka

Fresh off the back of his first international callup, Saka will be flying with confidence. He played well for England in their friendly against Wales but he will be excited to return to action in the Premier League.

Saka’s versatility is what has already made him a star at a young age. He will only continue to improve and it’s in his games like this which he thrives. He will likely take a position at wing-back, although Arteta has the option to revert to a back four if need be.