He is the only Arsenal defender that I’m afraid of at the moment, I’m still thinking on How I could pass Him tomorrow”, Atalanta star player Ademola Lookman reveals the One Arsenal player that He is afraid to face tomorrow – Not Timber and not Saliba
Arsenal are bracing for a challenging Champions League opener against Atalanta, facing a significant injury crisis. The Gunners, without several key players including Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Mikel Merino, and Riccardo Calafiori, managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Tottenham in the North London Derby, showcasing their adaptability and resolve under pressure.
Despite the adversity, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised his side’s ability to overcome challenges. “We suffered because we had to adapt the plan due to the players available, but the team responded brilliantly. Instead of finding excuses, we embraced the challenge,” Arteta stated after the match.
However, tougher challenges lie ahead, with a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City on the horizon. But first, Arsenal must navigate their way past Atalanta, a dangerous European opponent with a reputation for upsetting bigger teams.
Injury Concerns
Arsenal’s injury list remains long, with several key players ruled out. Martin Odegaard is a significant doubt for the Atalanta match, while Zinchenko, Tierney, Tomiyasu, and Merino are all confirmed absentees for both upcoming fixtures against Atalanta and Manchester City. Bukayo Saka, who was substituted late in the Tottenham match with an apparent injury, is also a major doubt for the game.
Arteta may turn to 17-year-old sensation Ethan Nwaneri to fill the gap left by Saka. Nwaneri, who has impressed in his limited opportunities, could offer the Gunners a fresh attacking outlet on the right wing.
Additionally, Raheem Sterling, who joined Arsenal in the summer, is expected to start in place of Gabriel Martinelli on the left side of the attack. Sterling’s experience and dynamism will be crucial as Arsenal look to break down a well-organized Atalanta defense.
Declan Rice’s Return
One major boost for Arsenal will be the return of Declan Rice, who missed the North London Derby due to suspension. His presence in midfield is expected to stabilize the team and allow Arteta to revert to the 4-3-3 formation that has served the Gunners well this season. Rice’s defensive awareness and leadership will be crucial in breaking down Atalanta’s counter-attacking style.
Tactical Approach
Arteta will likely stick with his tried-and-tested 4-3-3 formation, prioritizing midfield control and defensive solidity. With Rice back in the fold, Arsenal will aim to dictate the tempo of the game, keeping possession and utilizing quick transitions to exploit Atalanta’s vulnerabilities.
In the absence of Saka, Leandro Trossard is expected to play a more prominent role in attack, providing versatility and creativity. Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling will use his pace and experience to stretch Atalanta’s backline, while Ethan Nwaneri could offer an unpredictable element that Arteta will hope can unsettle the Italian side.
The Gunners will need to remain disciplined, especially defensively. Atalanta are known for their high-tempo, attacking play under Gian Piero Gasperini, and Arsenal’s backline, led by William Saliba and Gabriel, will be tested. The key for Arteta will be to balance defensive solidity with the fluid attacking play that has characterized Arsenal’s best performances this season.
Champions League Ambitions
For Arsenal, this Champions League campaign represents a chance to finally win a major European trophy, a feat that has long eluded them. Despite being one of England’s top clubs, the Gunners have never lifted the Champions League trophy. This season, they are determined to change that narrative.
After last season’s disappointing quarter-final exit, Arteta’s men are hungry for success in Europe. The challenge against Atalanta provides an opportunity to start their campaign on the right foot, but with key players missing, Arsenal will need to dig deep to secure a result.
Predicted Arsenal Lineup
Goalkeeper: Raya
Defense: White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber
Midfield: Rice, Jorginho, Havertz
Attack: Nwaneri, Trossard, Sterling
