The Premier League title race is heating up, and Arsenal have a golden opportunity to close the gap on leaders Liverpool when they face West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday afternoon. With Mikel Arteta's men sitting within striking distance of the top, a win against their London rivals would strengthen their title credentials.
Arsenal's Revival and Title Ambitions
Arsenal fans may have been discouraged after a tricky spell earlier in the season, but the Gunners have rediscovered their form. A crucial 2-0 victory over Leicester City last weekend, courtesy of an inspired Mikel Merino, ensured that they remain in the title conversation. With Liverpool showing signs of vulnerability, Arsenal can move within five points of the summit if they take care of business and Manchester City does them a favor elsewhere.
Arteta's side boasts an incredible home record, remaining unbeaten at the Emirates this season. Their last Premier League home defeat dates back to April last year, and they have successfully navigated 15 league games at the Emirates without tasting defeat.
West Ham's Struggles Under Graham Potter
Unlike Arsenal, West Ham have endured a difficult run of form under Graham Potter. The Irons are 16th in the table and have managed just four points from their last seven matches. A 1-0 home defeat to Brentford last weekend further compounded their woes, as Kevin Schade's early goal handed them their fifth loss in seven outings.
Potter's men have struggled defensively, especially against Arsenal. They suffered humiliating 6-0 and 5-2 defeats in their last two meetings with the Gunners. Another defensive collapse could see Arsenal become the first team in Premier League history to score five or more goals in three consecutive games against the same opponent.
Team News and Possible Lineups
Arsenal Injuries & Lineup Arsenal’s injury concerns remain significant, with key players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Takehiro Tomiyasu all sidelined. However, Arteta has found solutions, and the emergence of Ethan Nwaneri adds a fresh attacking dimension.
Predicted Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard.
West Ham Injuries & Lineup West Ham are also dealing with injury issues, with Michail Antonio, Crysencio Summerville, Niclas Fullkrug, Vladimir Coufal, and Lucas Paqueta unavailable. James Ward-Prowse and Evan Ferguson may be called into the starting lineup to provide creativity and firepower.
Predicted West Ham XI: Areola; Wan-Bissaka, Mavropanos, Kilman, Emerson; Ward-Prowse, Alvarez; Bowen, Soler, Kudus; Ferguson.
Prediction: Arsenal 2-0 West Ham
While Arsenal's attacking depth is being tested, they should still have enough quality to see off a struggling West Ham side. The Hammers’ defensive fragility and lack of momentum could make this another frustrating afternoon for Potter’s men. With Ethan Nwaneri shining and Arsenal’s midfield controlling proceedings, expect the Gunners to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory.
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