Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta could make a big call for today’s visit of Manchester City which would have big implications for Gabriel Jesus. Kai Havertz played in the middle of a front three when they met in August’s Community Shield and Arteta faces a dilemma of whether to repeat the same tactic.
The Gunners won the Community Shield on penalties following Leandro Trossard’s late equaliser and Havertz received plaudits for his role up front. Arteta needs to decide on the best position for Havertz as the German has looked ineffective while playing in a three-man Arsenal midfield.
However, Jesus will feel he deserves to keep his position as the middle of the front three after scoring the only goal in a 2-1 defeat at Lens. A shift in tactics could result in the Brazilian attacker being redeployed on the left or right side of the front three.
Havertz has played in an attacking midfield role in all seven Premier League games and scored last weekend in their 4-0 win at Bournemouth. The German signed for Arsenal in the summer from London rivals Chelsea where he scored 32 goals over three seasons.
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England international Bukayo Saka came off injured against Lens after attempting a backheel and was also taken off early last weekend at Bournemouth. Arteta provided a positive injury update about the winger ahead of Sunday’s crunch clash.
He said: “Well he is in contention. Let’s see how he progresses from here to Sunday. He had to leave the pitch that’s never good news but let’s see how he recovers.”
