Europa League

Back four for the Gunners? How Arsenal could line-up against Dundalk

Mikel Arteta has only two senior central defenders at his disposal which could force his hand in the Europa League

10:00am on Thursday 29th October 2020
By Martin Macdonald

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is set to ring the changes for the Gunners' Europa League match against Dundalk on Thursday.

The Premier League side are huge, overwhelming favourites to claim all three points in the game and so he may trust some of his fringe players to impress.

Runar Alex Runarsson could be handed his first start of the season in place of Bernd Leno, who could be doing with a rest, especially after his error in the competition last week.

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With just Shkodran Mustafi and Gabriel fit in the central defensive role, those two could make up a back four with Cedric Soares and Sead Kolasinac.

Ahead of the defence Arteta has a plethora of options to choose from, and due to Dundalk's minnow status within the competition, it could see a completely different midfield from that which started against Leicester.

Mohamed Elneny should come back after being left out against the Foxes, while Joe Willock might be given a start.

Reiss Nelson is pushing for a start, with Willian also available after recovering from injury.

With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang misfiring so far this season, it could be the perfect opportunity for him to score some goals and get the confidence up.