Arsenal will face Chelsea on Boxing Day in the most anticipated game this weekend.
Arsenal are experiencing its worst season since 1975. The Gunners have only 14 points in 14 games in Premiership and find themselves at 15th place. Manager Mikel Arteta is in danger of losing his job as high profile German Thomas Tuchel was sacked early this week and is rumored to be potential candidate for Arsenal’s seat.
Arsenal is coming to the derby after suffering heavy 1-4 defeat in Carabao cup against Manchester City. Not only that, but Gunners hasn’t seen success in Premier league since November 1 win against Manchester United.
Considering the defense was the only positive in Arsenal’s play so far in the season, getting four against City shows another potential area where Arteta could have problems as Chelsea is second in goal scoring in the league.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is in doubt to start due to injury, same with Gabriel Martinelli. Lacazette is likely to lead the attack this Saturday and Granit Xhaka will be available after serving his three-game suspension.
Attacking third and goal scoring are still major problem for Arsenal. Only 12 goals so far put the team as 4th worst in the league only in front of Burnley (8), Sheffield Utd (8) and West Brom (10). Arsenal strikers are in atrocious form this year as Aubameyang, Lacazette, Nketiah, Willian and Pepe have 8 goals total between them.
Chelsea spirits are high after clean 3-0 win against West Ham on Monday and eventual win in the derby could see them 2nd just 3 points behind Liverpool.
Expected eleven for Arsenal:
Leno; Luiz, Gabriel, Holding; Bellerin, Elneny, Xhaka, Tierney; Saka, Pepe, Nketiah
