Arsenal Eye Rotation Ahead of Premier League Test at Everton

Saka return timed with Real Madrid looming

As Arsenal prepare for their final visit to Goodison Park, Mikel Arteta faces a delicate balancing act between Premier League ambitions and the looming Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid. Saturday’s early kick-off against Everton could see Bukayo Saka start his first match since December, following a promising return against Fulham in midweek.

The winger’s recovery from a hamstring injury was capped with a goal in the 2-1 win, and Arteta hinted that more minutes may be on the horizon:

“He needs exposure, you know, and he’s going to have exposure,” Arteta said. “He played 30 minutes [against Fulham]. He felt really well. He scored a goal and he wants more. He’s clear. In the last two days, he’s demanding more and he wants more.”

That desire for involvement will undoubtedly tempt Arteta, though the Madrid showdown is clearly at the forefront of his mind. The Spanish manager must assess whether risking his talisman from the off is worth it, particularly given the potential for a physical Everton side under David Moyes to disrupt rhythm and apply pressure.

Defensive concerns deepen for Gunners

While Saka’s availability is a welcome boost, Arsenal are far from full strength. Gabriel’s season-ending hamstring injury – also suffered against Fulham – adds to a growing list of absentees, with key figures like Calafiori, Tomiyasu, Havertz and Jesus already ruled out.

There is cautious optimism surrounding Ben White and Jurrien Timber, both of whom have “a chance” of being involved according to Arteta. However, neither are expected to feature heavily, with Arteta likely to protect their recovery timelines given the importance of upcoming fixtures.

Squad depth is being tested at precisely the wrong moment. The decision to rely on youth or rotate players from peripheral roles may be necessary if Arsenal want to keep momentum in both domestic and European campaigns.

Young talent gets a platform

Arteta’s predicted XI features a notable injection of youth and versatility, with Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly. Leandro Trossard and Merino could feature in a fluid front three, offering the pace and creativity needed against an Everton backline that will sit deep and remain compact.

Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Partey, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Jorginho, Rice; Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard.

While these names may raise eyebrows, Arsenal’s development focus and tactical flexibility have defined their evolution under Arteta. Trust in emerging talent has paid off before—and Everton, despite their Premier League struggles, will be wary of an XI motivated to ...