The season is finally underway in the true sense of the term. The International break is done and dusted, and Champions League nights are back. Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal side displayed the grit and fighting spirit that is so often the hallmark of Champion teams when they exchanged blows with defending Premier League Champions Manchester City in a thrilling 2-2 draw at the weekend.
The Frenchman would be well aware that while City at home was a stern test, there’s few tougher examinations in world football than to take on Dortmund in the cauldron of the electric Westfalenstadion. And despite strengthening the squad with the additions of Alexis Sanchez, Danny Welbeck and Calum Chambers, Arsenal have barely looked anything like a cohesive unit. Let’s take a look at the team which might take the field tonight against a very organised Dortmund side.
Goalkeeper:
Wozceich Szczesny
Despite David Ospina’s arrival at the club, the Polish International is well and truly Arsene Wenger’s first choice in goal and should start.
Defence
Calum Chambers, Per Mertesacker, Laurent Koscielny, Kieran Gibbs.
Mathieu Debuchy has damaged ligaments on his ankle and could be reportedly sidelined for two months, which means Calum Chambers will get his first taste of action in the Champions League proper. Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny are expected to retain their places and continue a partnership that provided the foundations for Arsenal’s brief title challenge last season. Nacho Monreal looked vulnerable at the weekend against Jesus Navas, and Kieran Gibbs should return from his short injury lay-off to claim his rightful place at left back.
Midfield
Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere, Mesut Ozil.
While Mathieu Flamini’s no-nonsense approach is a favourite with the fans, a fit Mikel Arteta should come into the side as Wenger values the Spaniard’s leadership skills and calmness in the middle of the park. Arteta is an effective shield in front of a back 4 which has looked vulnerable in recent times and even if he isn’t 100% fit, he is likely to be favoured.
Jack Wilshere’s man-of-the-match performance against Manchester City at the weekend shows the England international is easing his way back to form and fitness, and his box-to-box surges could well be the key to unlock the German outfit.
Ramsey started the season on a flying note, but seemed to look slightly off the pace of the game against City, and could miss out for Santi Cazorla if Wenger decides to play Ozil in his favourite position behind the striker. The Welsh International suffered an ankle injury while on international duty, and a rest could well be the need of the hour.
Forwards
Alexis Sanchez, Danny Welbeck, Santi Cazorla.
While a rested Santi Cazorla on the left wing is a possible solution given the riches at Wenger’s disposal, the high-flying Alexis Sanchez would provide quality down the right flank. Sanchez’s tireless workrate and running ability could be vital against Dortmund, not just in an attacking sense but doing the dirty work in defence.
Danny Welbeck is nailed on to start, given Olivier Giroud is out with injury and Welbeck could run in behind the Dortmund defence, giving Arsenal a directness they lacked in previous seasons. The Mancunian had a bright start to life at the Emirates against Manchester City and should thrive in his favourite centre forward position.