Arsenal is preparing to face Manchester City in a crucial Premier League match that could significantly impact their title aspirations. Currently trailing Liverpool by six points, the Gunners cannot afford to drop points, especially with Liverpool having a game in hand.
Injuries have plagued Arsenal’s attacking options, with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus sidelined. This situation has led manager Mikel Arteta to consider deploying Kai Havertz in his more natural attacking midfield role, a position where he has previously excelled.
In the absence of key forwards, Arteta is expected to utilize Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli on the wings, with Havertz operating centrally behind the striker. This tactical adjustment aims to leverage Havertz’s creativity and goal-scoring ability from midfield.
Defensively, Arsenal faces challenges with injuries to key players. Jurrien Timber has been filling in at right-back due to Ben White’s injury, and captain Martin Ødegaard has returned from illness to bolster the midfield alongside Declan Rice and Thomas Partey.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, February 2, at the Emirates Stadium, with kick-off at 4:30 pm. Given the stakes, this encounter is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in Arsenal’s pursuit of the Premier League title.
