In the upcoming game week 3 of the Premier League, Arsenal is set to face Fulham at their home ground, Emirates Stadium. Arsenal have kicked off the league in great style, winning both of their initial fixtures. They secured victories against Nottingham Forest at home and Crystal Palace on the road. Although the Crystal Palace win wasn't as convincing as Manager Arteta would have preferred, a win is a win, and they're maintaining their flawless record.
On the other side, Fulham are looking back at a good season from the previous year. After making their comeback to the top tier of English football, they finished in the 10th position. Their start this season included a win against Everton but stumbled with a 3-0 loss at home against Brentford.
With a long season ahead, Fulham aims to put the last game behind them. However, facing Arsenal at their home will be an even tougher challenge. The top bookmakers in India have EPL odds with them.
Despite the early stage of the season, Arsenal is grappling with several injury and suspension concerns. Timber and G. Jesus won't be available due to injuries, and Tomiyasu will miss the game due to his suspension for receiving two yellow cards in the previous match. Saka has been performing exceptionally well for Arsenal, as has their captain Martin Odegaard.
Interestingly, Trossard, despite shining in the pre-season, hasn't secured a spot in the starting lineup, which reflects the depth of Arsenal's squad. Partey's adaptation to a makeshift right-back role has been impressive.
Trossard might start ahead of Martinelli, given his form; he has been constantly knocking on the door. Zinchenko might play instead of the suspended Tomiyasu.
Predicted Lineup: Ramsdale, Partey, White, Saliba, Zinchenko, Rice, Havertz, Odegaard, Saka, Nketiah, Martinelli
Fulham, meanwhile, faces their own set of challenges. Tim Ream's red card in the last game renders him unavailable, a significant blow considering he is their captain. Additionally, Fulham will miss the services of Mitrovic, their striker who has moved to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. Raul Jiminez, who led their previous game, is struggling with form. Despite the defeat, Tete's performance stood out as promising. Leno, the former Arsenal goalkeeper, has been in good shape for Fulham.
Calvin Bassey , the marquee summer signing might start and play in place of the suspended Read. Willian's inclusion is also a possibility.
Predicted Lineup: Leno, Tete, Diop, Bassey, Robinson, Reed, Lukic, Andreas Pereira, Wilson, Jimenez, Reid
Arsenal's strong performance from last season, where they came second, has carried forward, making them serious contenders for the league title this time. They've strengthened their team with new players and are determined to win big. At their home stadium, Emirates, they're known for their dominant play, showing their strength. However, on the other side, Fulham enters with a spirit of determination.
They need to focus on their defense, stick together at the back, and be quick to catch opportunities on the counterattack. Fulham has players like Willian and Andreas Pereira who are good at creating chances, and this adds to their game.