Arsenal XI vs Chelsea: Predicted lineup, team news, injury latest

Mikel Arteta will be tempted to tweak his starting line-up for Arsenal’s showdown with Chelsea this afternoon. In a derby which has been billed as attack vs defence, Chelsea’s forwards have hit the ground running and come up against the Gunners’ impressive rearguard.

Team News and Defensive Decisions

Cristhian Mosquera’s withdrawal against Aston Villa on Monday night was precautionary, according to Arteta, but the Arsenal manager might be tempted to add more experience to his back line as Ezri Konsa pushed to make his full debut at centre-back alongside Gabriel.

Arsenal showcased their impressive strength in depth at Villa Park, particularly in midfield. Bruno Guimaraes came off the bench and was bright in his cameo, though he picked up a small issue in that match and is a doubt for the London derby against the Blues.

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“He had a knock against Villa in the previous game,” Arteta said at his pre-match press conference on Friday. “He's been assessed, but probably tomorrow he will be ok to train.”

Arteta on Timber and Attack

Arteta indicated that Jurrien Timber is closing in on a return but it would be a surprise if he was involved on Sunday. “He's in really good condition at the moment,” Arteta said. “He's been training with us now, he's in a good place.” On his chances of playing against Chelsea, the Arsenal manager added: “We will decide again tomorrow after training.”

In attack, Christos Tzolis had a tough time of it against Villa and Eberechi Eze pushed his case for a start by making a difference after coming on at half time. Viktor Gyokeres has not played a minute in the Premier League this season and is not expected to replace Kai Havertz for this match, with Arteta so often trusting the German in big games.