Arsenal are set to face Slavia Prague in a crucial Champions League clash, but Mikel Arteta's squad faces a potential suspension headache. The Gunners, boasting a perfect record in the competition so far with wins against Atletico Madrid, Olympiacos and Athletic Club, are looking to maintain their momentum.
Key Player Faces Ban
Declan Rice is walking a tightrope, having already accumulated two yellow cards in the Champions League. Another booking against Slavia Prague would rule him out of the highly anticipated match against Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium on November 26. This would be a major blow for Arsenal, as Rice has been instrumental in their recent successes, including their 2-0 win over Burnley.
Team News and Predicted Lineup
Mikel Arteta has made several changes to the starting lineup. Christian Norgaard replaces the suspended Martin Zubimendi. Ethan Nwaneri also makes his first start of the season in European competition. Viktor Gyokeres is out injured, so Mikel Merino starts up front. Piero Hincapie replaces Riccardo Calafiori in the backline.
Here's a predicted Arsenal lineup (4-3-3):
- GK: David Raya
- RB: Jurriën Timber
- CB: William Saliba
- CB: Piero Hincapié
- LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly
- CM: Christian Nørgaard
Slavia Prague's Changes
Slavia Prague has also made changes, with Christos Zafeiris returning to central midfield and Youssoupha Mbodji added to the lineup.
Arsenal will be without Martin Zubimendi due to suspension after accumulating three yellow cards. UEFA rules dictate an automatic one-game ban for players receiving three yellow cards in the league phase.
Can Arsenal secure a win against Slavia Prague and avoid any further suspensions ahead of their clash with Bayern Munich? Stay tuned for updates!