Arsenal are set to face Ipswich Town at the Emirates Stadium in their final Premier League match of 2024. With Bukayo Saka sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Mikel Arteta must reshuffle his squad to maintain their momentum in the title race. This article explores Arsenal’s predicted lineup vs Ipswich and how the Gunners might adapt to their current challenges.
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Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Ipswich: Key Changes in Attack
The absence of Bukayo Saka, who is expected to miss several weeks, forces Arteta to rethink his attacking setup. Gabriel Martinelli is likely to step into the right-wing role, a position he filled effectively during Arsenal’s recent 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace. Gabriel Jesus, fresh off a stellar run of form with five goals in two games, could shift to the left wing, while Kai Havertz is expected to lead the line as the central striker.
Leandro Trossard, another versatile option, may also feature in the front three, providing Arteta with flexibility in attack. The Gunners will aim to exploit Ipswich’s defensive vulnerabilities, as the visitors have struggled this season, sitting 19th in the table with just 12 points.
Midfield Stability: Odegaard and Rice to Shine
In midfield, captain Martin Odegaard will be pivotal in creating chances, especially in Saka’s absence. Declan Rice, who impressed off the bench against Crystal Palace, is expected to return to the starting XI. His ability to control the game from deep and contribute offensively makes him a key figure in Arsenal’s setup.
Arteta might opt for Jorginho or Mikel Merino alongside Rice and Odegaard to ensure balance and creativity in the middle of the park. With Ipswich likely to sit deep, Arsenal’s midfielders will need to dictate the tempo and find openings in the opposition’s defense.
Defensive Setup: Calafiori to Return
Arsenal’s backline is expected to remain largely unchanged, with David Raya continuing in goal. Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori are likely to occupy the full-back positions, while William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes form the central defensive partnership.
Calafiori, who returned from injury with an assist against Crystal Palace, is set to replace Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back. The Italian’s attacking contributions and defensive solidity will be crucial as Arsenal look to secure another clean sheet at home.
Arsenal’s Predicted XI vs Ipswich
Formation: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Raya
Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori
Midfielders: Odegaard, Rice, Jorginho
Forwards: Martinelli, Havertz, Jesus
