Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on matchday eight of the Premier League on Saturday, 19th October at 17:30 BST. The Gunners are looking to pick up three more points against the Cherries as Mikel Arteta hopes to capture his side’s first English Premiership in over two decades after coming agonisingly close to the crown in the last couple of seasons.
Arsenal are unbeaten in their last five matches in all competitions, winning four of those. They have averaged over 3 goals per game over that run, having struck 16 times. Defensively they have looked strong, but on paper, the team has only kept one clean sheet and none in its three previous league games.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, are 13th in the Premier League standings but have lost thrice in their last five matches in the competition. Admittedly, two of those results came against much stronger opponents – Chelsea and Liverpool.
Predicted Lineups
Bournemouth
Bournemouth are expected to be without only Tyler Adams as the American international continues his recovery from a back injury. Besides his absence, Andoni Iraola has a fully fit side to pick from.
Possible eleven – Kepa; Smith, Senesi, Zabarnyi, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Semenyo, Kluivert, Tavernier; Evanilson.
Arsenal
Arsenal encountered some fears over the international break as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz and Thomas Partey missed all or part of the international break. The trio is not seriously injured, however, and should be available for selection ahead of the trip to Bournemouth. Arteta is unlikely to make too many rotations though any risks are not going to be afforded.
Possible eleven – Raya; White, Gabriel, Saliba, Calafiori; Merino, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard, Jesus
Where the game will be won
Bukayo Saka is expected to start for Arsenal after a hamstring injury scare whilst on duty with England. The Englishman has no natural back-up in the team and will start even if he might not be at a 100%.
Nevertheless, he is capable of making a winning contribution against Bournemouth. His opponent will not be an easy one with one of the Premier League’s most upcoming left backs Milos Kerkez awaiting him.
If Saka can bypass Kerkez, Arsenal might be able to thwart Bournemouth in the final third but should the winger be thwarted by the Greek defender, Arsenal will struggle for creativity.
Our Prediction
Bournemouth 1-3 Arsenal
Bournemouth will see to it that Arsenal’s run of four matches without clean sheets in the Premier League is prolonged. They have a quality attack that is capable of breaching practically any opponent.
Arsenal, however, have some very good players in their offensive department and barring any surprises, they should earn a hard fought win at the Vitality Stadium.