Arsenal open their Premier League season Sunday, 14th August with a home fixture against Liverpool looking to get their first three points of the year.
It will, however, be a difficult ask with Jurgen Klopp’s side going into Sunday’s opener in good form and fewer injuries than their opponents, while the Gunners will be forced to field an inexperienced pairing at the heart of the defence which could include both Calum Chambers and Rob Holding.
Will this be the XI that Arsenal use to take on the Reds?
Goalkeeper: Petr Cech
The experienced Premier League legend will be one of the first names on the team sheet, he’s a leader and one of the most talented in the squad. Don’t be surprised if David Ospina pushes him hard throughout the season for a place in the first XI, the Colombian has been in decent form and Arsene Wenger likes him, a lot.
Right back: Hector Bellerin
Bellerin enters his third season playing for the Arsenal first-team on a regular basis, despite being just 21-years-old. What a footballer, the Spaniard is going to be around for a long, long time.
Central defenders: Calum Chambers and Rob Holding
The defensive duo that could make or break this game. While Krystian Bielik has proven himself to be a good footballer his lack of experience at the top competitive level will likely see him provide back-up to Holding and Chambers. The former is a good and solid defender but only has experience at Championship level, while Chambers’ ability at centre back is questionable.
Left back: Nacho Monreal
The fan favourite is likely to start at left back, although don’t be surprised to see him partner Chambers with Kieran Gibbs at left back. Monreal is a very good defender first and foremost and may end up being used there once again.
Central midfielders: Mohamed Elneny and Granit Xhaka
Elneny has shown what a talent he is, he’s a great, great footballer and is a serious contender to be one of the main fixtures in the side throughout the season. What he provides is the perfect mix of defensive stability, legs and forward thinking when on the ball. Meanwhile, Xhaka has plenty of ability to spray the ball around the midfield and create chances from deep, this partnership could be an exciting one to look out for.
Right wing: Alexis Sanchez
The Chilean looked good on the right at the end of last season and while it’s arguably better for him to be on the left because he can cut in, he became a tad one dimensional. On the right wing, he can mix it up and provide nightmares, especially against Alberto Moreno.
Attacking midfielder: Aaron Ramsey
Ramsey will play high up and create plenty of chances, he has a good record when it comes to facing up against Liverpool and while Santi Cazorla could feature from the bench, but his fitness means he is unlikely to start from the off. Jack Wilshere won't feature.
Left wing: Alex Iwobi
Iwobi is a top talent and had a fantastic end to last season, continuing that good form into the summer with pre-season. He’s an exciting option to consider for the new season.
Centre forward: Theo Walcott
The England international, although unhappy about playing up front, has confirmed that where needed he will play in the role. A lot will be resting on Walcott’s finishing ability in the absence of Olivier Giroud.
