Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Man Utd – FA Cup

Key Points:

• Arsenal host Manchester United in the FA Cup third round at the Emirates.
• The Gunners’ injury list remains unchanged.
• Mikel Arteta is expected to rotate his squad ahead of the North London Derby.

Sunday’s FA Cup clash with Manchester United offers Mikel Arteta a chance to rotate his squad while attempting to bounce back from Tuesday’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle. Arsenal dominated on paper with their xG stats, but their poor execution in both boxes led to a justified loss in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg.

The Emirates crowd has grown restless amid a spell of uninspiring football, and Arteta will be eager to reignite positivity ahead of Wednesday’s derby against Spurs. The Gunners have four players unavailable due to injury and illness, meaning Arteta’s rotation will require careful balancing to maintain competitiveness against a strong United side.

Here’s how Arsenal could line up for this FA Cup showdown.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Man Utd (4-3-3)

GK: Neto
The January signing has yet to feature for Arsenal due to being cup-tied in the Carabao Cup and playing second fiddle to David Raya in the Premier League. This game should provide Neto his first outing for the Gunners.

RB: Jurrien Timber
Having scored in Arsenal’s December encounter with United, Timber will look to replicate his impressive performance. He’ll aim to nullify the threat posed by Diogo Dalot after the Portuguese full-back impressed last weekend.

CB: William Saliba
Saliba has been an ever-present force for Arsenal this season, and Arteta is unlikely to rest his defensive stalwart given the lack of reliable alternatives.

CB: Jakub Kiwior
Kiwior is expected to step in alongside Saliba, whose stability helps offset the Pole’s occasional inconsistencies.

LB: Riccardo Calafiori
The Italian full-back, rested against Newcastle, should return to the starting XI. With a crucial derby looming, Calafiori’s role here may give insight into Arteta’s plans for the left-back position midweek.

CM: Jorginho
The veteran midfielder, likely in his final months with Arsenal, could deputize at the base of midfield to rest Declan Rice. Although his recent form has been underwhelming, Jorginho’s experience will be invaluable.

CM: Mikel Merino
After being left out midweek, Merino is poised to start in place of Rice. His physicality and creativity make him a strong candidate for this tie.

CM: Martin Ødegaard
The Norwegian playmaker has struggled to deliver his usual magic in Bukayo Saka’s absence. Arteta will hope this match serves as a confidence boost for his captain.

RW: Raheem Sterling
Sterling, recently back from a knee injury, provides Arteta with an opportunity to test a potential alternative to Saka. This game is an ideal platform for the winger to regain match sharpness.

ST: Gabriel Jesus
With Kai Havertz having played 90 minutes last weekend despite recent illness, Jesus should lead the line. The Brazilian striker offers greater sharpness and fluidity in attack.

LW: Gabriel Martinelli
The Brazilian winger has struggled to find consistent form this season, but with Leandro Trossard also misfiring, Martinelli remains the preferred option on the left flank.