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West Ham vs Arsenal: Viktor Gyokeres of Arsenal FC attacks the Athletic Club goal during the Pre-season Friendly match between Arsenal and Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Athletic Club for September 16

Arsenal have three wins out of four games in the Premier League, and on September 16, they begin their 2025/26 Champions League campaign away against Athletic Club at the Estadio de San Mames in Bilbao. This opening game will take place in the 5:45pm BST kick-off slot. Here is our Arsenal predicted lineup.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Athletic Club

How Arsenal Have Lined Up Recently

Arteta continues to line his team up in a 4-3-3 formation, and in the win over Nottingham Forest, they lined up with David Raya in goal, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori starting in the full-back positions. In central defence, it was Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhaes, with William Saliba not ready following his ankle injury against Liverpool before the international break. In midfield, it was a trio of Martin Zubimendi, Martin Odegaard, and Mikel Merino.

Read More: Top Five Greatest Arsenal Goalkeepers of All Time

Starting out wide was Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, with Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres starting in attack, who went on to score the second goal against Forest.

Arsenal Injuries and Absentees to Consider

Saliba has been seen training, but it’s feasible that he will be on the substitutes bench and protected for a showdown against Manchester City on September 21. Odegaard did not train following the shoulder injury sustained against Forest. Christian Norgaard could also feature, as he also trained with the main group.

In his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about the recovery of Bukayo Saka and said:

“No, I think he’s still quite a lot of things to go through, very difficult to understand what week he is going to be available.”

He also confirmed Odegaard would not travel with the squad: “No, he’s back home,” the Gunners boss said.

Arteta also confirmed Ben White, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus remain out.

Read More: Top Five Greatest Arsenal Fullbacks of All Time

Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Athletic Club

GK: David Raya
LB: Piero Hincapie
CB: Cristhian Mosquera
CB: Gabriel Magalhaes
RB: Jurrien Timber
CM: Martin Zubimendi
CM: Declan Rice
CM: Ethan Nwaneri
LW: Eberechi Eze
ST: Viktor Gyokeres
RW: Noni Madueke

About Ricky Carroll, Editor

Ricky Carroll stands as a prominent figure in sports journalism, currently serving as the **LWOS World Football Editor**. His comprehensive coverage has enabled him to bring news and analysis to football fans. Beyond the pitch, Ricky demonstrates exceptional expertise for the Sweet Science, dissecting events for **Big Fight Weekend**. His analytical prowess allows him to delve deep into tactics, performance, and the broader narratives shaping both sports. With a history of delivering incisive commentary and compelling analyses, Ricky brings a rich tapestry of experience to every piece. His dedication to accuracy and deep understanding of the intricacies of world football and combat sports are evident in his well-researched contributions. He remains steadfast in his commitment to producing high-quality, authoritative content that informs and enlightens his audience.

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