Mikel Arteta Faces Selection Dilemma at Arsenal as £45m Bukayo Saka Alternative Makes a Comeback.

Mikel Arteta Faces Selection Dilemma at Arsenal as £45m Bukayo Saka Alternative Makes a Comeback.

Mikel Arteta faces a challenging decision regarding his starting XI as Arsenal prepares for their trip to Goodison Park in the Premier League this weekend.

The situation has a striking resemblance to last season, with Arsenal performing well in the early stages of the season and Everton struggling in a winless streak, much like the previous year. Additionally, the game follows a last-minute Arsenal victory over Manchester United, mirroring a similar scenario from the past.

Eddie Nketiah, who has started three out of Arsenal’s four opening Premier League games this season and scored twice, is enjoying a run in the side, similar to his streak last February when the two teams met.

However, the key difference this time is the availability of Gabriel Jesus. Although he didn’t start against Manchester United due to knee surgery recovery, Jesus came off the bench to secure a dramatic 3-1 victory for Arsenal. Despite his availability, there is a strong argument that Nketiah’s impressive start to the campaign might have earned him a starting spot.

Mikel Arteta has been effusive in his praise of the 24-year-old, highlighting his exceptional performances in training. Nketiah’s form even earned him a first call-up to the England national team. However, this doesn’t necessarily guarantee him a starting role on Sunday.

Arteta, when asked about the challenge of team selection with Nketiah’s international call-up, emphasized his pride in the player’s work ethic and his ability to push himself and the team to excel.

In reality, Gabriel Jesus is likely the favorite to regain his starting position. His absence was felt keenly in last season’s match at Goodison Park, where Arsenal appeared rigid up front. Jesus is known for his ability to unsettle defenders with unpredictable movement, while Nketiah tends to operate more within the penalty area, a trait evident in Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to Everton in February.

Mikel Arteta Faces Selection Dilemma at Arsenal as £45m Bukayo Saka Alternative Makes a Comeback.