Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Brentford: Massive changes ahead of Real Madrid | OneFootball

After a brilliant day in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid, Arsenal are back in the Premier League on Saturday. Mikel Arteta's side won 3–0 at the Emirates on Tuesday after two wonder free-kick goals from Declan Rice, followed by a third from Mikel Merino. Up next for them is a home tie against Brentford.

While Arsenal has one foot in the semi-finals, an opponent like Real Madrid cannot be taken lightly. As a result, a lineup similar to the one used against Everton can be expected, with several first-choice players likely to be rested ahead of the big night at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Arsenal's predicted lineup in the Premier League vs Brentford (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: David Raya

Raya had an easy night against Real Madrid. He will be keen to keep another clean sheet, especially after conceding against Everton last time out.

Right-Back: Ben White

Jurrien Timber has been Arsenal’s first-choice right-back this season. However, Saturday should see White return to the starting XI, with Timber expected to be rested.

Center-Back: William Saliba

Saliba was another player who had little to do against Real Madrid. Against a tricky side like Brentford, though, his experience will be crucial.

Center-Back: Jakub Kiwior

Kiwior has performed well since stepping into the lineup in place of the injured Gabriel. After a relatively quiet night against Madrid, he’ll be eager to carry that momentum into the London derby.

Left-Back: Oleksandr Zinchenko

Kieran Tierney made an appearance against Madrid, but not in place of Myles Lewis-Skelly. With the teenager expected to be rested, Zinchenko could return to the starting lineup, as his ability to invert into midfield offers a tactical advantage.

Central Midfield: Martin Ødegaard

The club captain may be one of the few players to retain his place from Wednesday’s match. Against a side like Brentford, his experience and energy will be important, especially with several regular starters potentially being rested.

Central Midfield: Jorginho

Jorginho has struggled for game time since signing for Arsenal. However, with expected midfield rotations, he should be among those getting a start against Brentford on Saturday.

Central Midfield: Mikel Merino

The hero of the Champions League quarter-final was taken off with an injury on Wednesday. Although he is expected to be fit, Arteta may prefer not to risk him against Brentford. Mikel Merino could be given another start in midfield.

Right Winger: Ethan Nwaneri

The youngster started against Everton, and with Bukayo Saka’s minutes still being carefully managed, especially after a recent injury scare in the Champions League, Nwaneri is likely to return to the starting XI for another Premier League appearance.

Center-Forward: Leandro Trossard

Trossard may not be a natural central striker, but Arteta has shown he can adapt players to different roles. With Mikel Merino expected to operate in midfield, the Belgian, who came on as a second-half substitute in Europe, is expected to start up front on Saturday.

Left Winger: Raheem Sterling

The on-loan Chelsea winger hasn’t had the smoothest spell since joining Arsenal. He played the first half against Everton in their last Premier League game and even provided an assist. He should return to the starting lineup, giving Martinelli a much-needed rest.