Arsenal is set to clash with Lyon in what promises to be an exciting pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium.
As both teams prepare for their respective league campaigns, this match offers a glimpse into their current form and readiness. Below is a detailed breakdown of what to expect from this encounter.
Team Form and Recent Performances
Arsenal
The Gunners are coming off an impressive 4-1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen. Mikel Arteta’s squad displayed their attacking prowess, with goals from Oleksandr Zinchenko, Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
Arsenal has been dominant throughout their pre-season, and their performance against Leverkusen only adds to the excitement surrounding this team.
Arteta’s men have been in solid form, consistently sharing the goals among several players, which highlights their attacking depth.
Lyon
Lyon, on the other hand, have also been in good form, particularly after their 4-0 demolition of Union Berlin in their last pre-season fixture.
With former Arsenal man Alexandre Lacazette away on Olympic duty, Lyon will look to other key players like Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Nemanja Matic to step up.
The French side has been inconsistent, with highs like their recent win balanced against some less convincing performances earlier in the pre-season.
Team News and Lineups
Arsenal
Injuries will keep Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu out of the lineup, while Jurrien Timber might be rested due to a minor foot issue.
New signing Declan Rice and star player Bukayo Saka are expected to return to the starting lineup, giving Arsenal a strong edge in midfield and attack.
Lyon
Lyon will be without Lacazette, who is captaining France in the Olympics, but they can still rely on Georges Mikautadze upfront, supported by Maitland-Niles and Benrahma in attack.
Their midfield will be anchored by the experienced Nemanja Matic.
Prediction
Given Arsenal’s formidable home record in the Emirates Cup and their current form, they are strong favourites to win this match.
While Lyon could pose a challenge, especially with Arsenal's defensive absences, the Gunners are expected to come out on top with a 3-1 victory.