As Arsenal prepare to kick off the 2024/25 Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 17, manager Mikel Arteta aims to start strong. The Gunners, having secured victories in their opening matches for the past two seasons, will be eager to continue this trend and set a positive tone for their campaign. Here’s a look at Arteta’s potential dream starting XI for the season opener, considering recent transfer activities and squad developments.
Goalkeeper
David Raya is expected to secure the No.1 spot after a successful loan spell, with his permanent transfer from Brentford anticipated to be completed for £27 million. Raya’s performance last season has solidified his place as the preferred choice between the sticks.
Defenders
- Right-Back: Ben White has been a consistent performer and will likely continue his role on the right side of the defense.
- Center-Backs: William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães are set to resume their partnership, having established themselves as one of the Premier League’s best center-back duos last season.
- Left-Back: Jurrien Timber, after recovering from an ACL injury, could make the left-back position his own. Timber’s return to fitness and strong pre-season performance should see him start.
Midfielders
- Defensive Midfielder: Youssouf Fofana from AS Monaco is a realistic target for the No.6 role. Fofana’s arrival would allow Declan Rice to operate in a more advanced left No.8 position, providing a balance of defensive solidity and forward drive.
- Central Midfielder: Declan Rice is set to continue in a more advanced role, leveraging his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.
- Attacking Midfielder: Martin Ødegaard will maintain his creative role, orchestrating Arsenal’s attacking play from midfield.
Forwards
- Right Wing: Bukayo Saka is a guaranteed starter, looking to build on his impressive tally of 16 league goals from last season.
- Striker: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United is the standout candidate for the striker position. His dynamic play and goal-scoring ability make him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s attack.
- Left Wing: Gabriel Martinelli is likely to get the nod over Leandro Trossard. Martinelli’s pace and directness will be crucial in exploiting spaces behind Wolves’ defense.
Formation and Tactical Approach
Arteta’s preferred formation of 4-3-3 will likely be deployed, with an emphasis on a solid defensive foundation and quick transitions in attack. The inclusion of Fofana as a dedicated defensive midfielder allows for greater flexibility in midfield, with Rice pushing forward to support Ødegaard in creating chances for the front three.
Potential Starting XI vs Wolves
Formation: 4-3-3
- Goalkeeper: David Raya
- Right-Back: Ben White
- Center-Backs: William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães
- Left-Back: Jurrien Timber
- Midfielders: Youssouf Fofana, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard
- Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Alexander Isak, Gabriel Martinelli
Key Considerations
- David Raya’s Confirmation: His permanent signing will need to be finalized and announced, with expectations high for him to continue as Arsenal’s main goalkeeper.
- Midfield Reinforcement: Securing Youssouf Fofana would address the need for a dedicated defensive midfielder, enabling a balanced midfield setup.
- Striker Signing: Alexander Isak represents a significant investment but could provide the goals needed to challenge for the title.
- Injury Management: The availability and form of players like Jurrien Timber post-injury will be crucial to maintaining a robust defense.
Arsenal’s dream lineup for the opener against Wolves reflects a blend of proven performers and targeted reinforcements, aimed at kicking off the season with a statement victory.
Arsenal’s Dream Lineup for Premier League Opener Against Wolves
