Predicted XI

Aubameyang rested? How Arsenal could line-up against Molde

The Gunners are on the cusp of qualifying for the knockout stage of the Europa League, but their captain may sit this one out from the start

 
10:20am on Wednesday 25th November 2020
By
Martin Macdonald

Mikel Arteta could opt to give Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a rest from the starting XI when Arsenal take on Molde in the Europa League.

With nine points out of nine claimed so far, the Gunners can qualify for the knockout stage with one more win, and with three matches remaining to do so, the pressure isn't on for the Gabon international to start.

Alexandre Lacazette, however, is pushing for a place in the starting XI.

Arteta tends to make a raft of changes for Europa League action and Thursday will be no different.

However, after the weekend some changes have been forced upon him.

Both Bukayo Saka and Willian had to come off injured in Sunday's draw away at Leeds, and will probably not feature here, with the severity of their injuries yet to be revealed.

David Luiz missed the Leeds game after his wife gave birth, so could be recalled to the starting XI for Europa League action in a back three alongside Shkodran Mustafi and Pablo Mari.

Cedric will feature at right wing-back, and with Thomas Partey still out injured and Mohamed Elneny out with coronavirus, that could mean another start in the middle of midfield for Granit Xhaka and Dani Ceballos.

Sead Kolasinac also tested positive for the virus, which would mean a place for Ainsley Maitland-Niles on the left.

Lacazette should start after not making it off the bench against Leeds, with Reiss Nelson and Emile Smith Rowe in behind.

Runar Alex Runarsson will come in to replace Bernd Leno in goal.

Arsenal: Squad, FC Ratings, Matches, Formations

Predicted Arsenal XI v Molde

Arsenal - Football tactics and formations

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