Predicted XI

Same again for Arteta? How Arsenal could line up against Aston Villa

Boss Mikel Arteta could use the same XI that emerged victorious from Old Trafford last week

8:00am on Sunday 8th November 2020
By Emmet Gates

Mikel Arteta could be set to return to the same starting XI that beat Manchester United away at Old Trafford last week.

The Gunners made wholesale changes for their mid-week home win against Molde in the Europa League, and Arteta is expected to revert to his main starting XI.

However, Arteta may decide to recall defender David Luiz, who missed the several games due to a thigh injury. He made his return to action in the win against Molde, and could force his way into Arteta's thinking for the game against Villa.

Granit Xhaka is also expected to return to midfield, with Mohamed Elney making way.

Arteta could implement a 4-3-2-1 formation, despite using a 3-4-3 against United last weekend.

If so, Kieran Tierney would move out to left-back, this would leave one of Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi fighting it out with Luiz for a starting berth alongside Gabriel.

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Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will lead the attack, flanked by Alexander Lacazette and most likely Willian.

Nicolas Pepe is pushing for a start, and Arteta may select the Ivorian over the Brazilian, who has failed to impress in recent weeks.

The likes of Joe Willock, Dani Ceballos and Edward Nketiah could make their presence felt off the bench.