Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has suggested that Mikel Arteta should consider fielding Arsenal’s “unbelievable” 5-foot-10 gem in the upcoming match against Chelsea, potentially sidelining Bukayo Saka. Arsenal, who finished second in the Premier League last season under Arteta, is eager to maintain their unbeaten start to the current campaign.
After a late-season collapse last year, where Arsenal narrowly missed out on the Premier League title to Manchester City, the team is now back in top form, boasting six wins and two draws in their first eight matches of the season. Currently sitting just behind table-toppers Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal is looking to continue their impressive run.
Chelsea, on the other hand, is currently 11th in the league, following a disappointing 12th-place finish last season. However, the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as manager has started to show signs of improvement, with consecutive away victories over Fulham and Burnley.
Arsenal has won five of their last six Premier League encounters, including their last three visits to Stamford Bridge. Although there are concerns about Bukayo Saka’s fitness, Arteta believes his team has the quality to stop Chelsea’s resurgence and continue their successful streak.
Regarding the Arsenal team news for the Chelsea match, Arteta mentioned that he needs to assess the fitness levels of Saka, William Saliba, and Leandro Trossard, all of whom withdrew from their international squads before the recent break. Thomas Partey, who is fit, could potentially replace Jorginho in midfield to provide power and physicality against Chelsea’s midfield.
The possible absence of Bukayo Saka is a major concern for Arteta. Saka, a 22-year-old winger, has been in exceptional form this season, contributing five goals and five assists in just ten matches across all competitions. Last season, he scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in the Premier League. Saka’s statistics place him among the top players in Europe for assists, progressive carries, touches in the attacking box, and tackles per 90.
Gabriel Martinelli, who might return to the starting lineup if Saka is sidelined, has proven his worth with a late winner against Manchester City. Martinelli, a 22-year-old forward, has been an integral part of Arsenal’s resurgence and has already made 137 appearances, contributing to 55 goals. His performance last season, with 15 goals and five assists in the Premier League, established him as one of the best forwards in the league.
Although Martinelli only has one goal against Chelsea, his abilities put him in high regard under Arteta. He is ranked among the top players in his position for goals and touches in the attacking box. Arsenal will look to extend their unbeaten streak with Martinelli and continue their title charge with another significant victory.
