Fresh from a series of underwhelming but effective performances midweek, Arsenal and Chelsea meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with significantly different stakes for each side. A victory would be highly beneficial for Mikel Arteta’s squad, which has dropped points in the last three domestic matches but is relatively secure above the battle for Champions League qualification.
For Chelsea, the pressure is mounting. Starting the weekend fourth in the league, the Blues are favorites for one of the three likely Champions League qualifying spots behind Arsenal, but failure to secure points could see them dragged back into the fray. Chelsea’s last trip to north London saw a 5-0 defeat, and they have not won in their last six Premier League encounters with Arsenal, marking their longest series without a victory since a decade-long drought until 2005.
Viewing Details
- Date: Sunday, March 15 | Time: 9:30 a.m. ET
- Location: Emirates Stadium, London
- Live Stream: Peacock
- Odds: Arsenal -125; Draw +270; Chelsea +333
Team News
Arsenal: Gabriel Martinelli made an unexpected return from a hamstring injury last weekend against Manchester United, although Arteta has expressed caution about overloading the Brazilian given his earlier injury timeline. This opens the door for Mikel Merino to continue as center forward, particularly with Raheem Sterling ineligible to play against his parent club.
Chelsea: Enzo Maresca announced that Robert Sanchez will be reinstated as the starting goalkeeper now that he has recovered from his short absence. Malo Gusto is doubtful because of a hamstring problem, while Reece James is expected to make a return in what will be a significantly altered lineup from their 1-0 win over Copenhagen in the Conference League.
Predicted Lineups
Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Nwaneri, Merino, Trossard
Chelsea XI: Sanchez; James, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella; Caicedo, Lavia; Palmer, Fernandez, Sancho; Neto
Prediction
This match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams underperforming recently. PREDICTION: Arsenal 1, Chelsea 1
