Arsenal are set to host Atlético Madrid at the Emirates Stadium tonight in a highly anticipated Champions League clash. The match, kicking off at 8pm BST, marks only the third time these two European giants have met in a competitive fixture.
Arsenal, currently leading the English Premier League by three points, have had a strong start to their Champions League campaign, winning both of their league phase fixtures without conceding a goal. Last season, they reached the Champions League semi-finals and are aiming for their sixth straight win across all competitions. Meanwhile, Atlético Madrid, after a slow start to their La Liga season, have climbed to fourth spot. They reached the last 16 of the Champions League last season, and recently defeated their bitter rivals, Real Madrid. However, they are yet to secure a victory away from home this season.
Mikel Arteta has made a couple of adjustments to the Arsenal side that won 1-0 at Fulham on Saturday. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel Martinelli have been included in the starting lineup, while Leandro Trossard and Riccardo Calafiori will start on the bench. Piero Hincapie is also back in contention after recovering from a groin injury, although he is unlikely to play a significant role. Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke remain absent due to injury. Arsenal's starting XI is expected to be: David Raya (Goalkeeper), William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Bukayo Saka (Captain), Eberechi Eze, Gabriel Martinelli, Jurrien Timber, Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly. Arteta also faces a selection dilemma in midfield, as both Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice are one booking away from a Champions League suspension.
Atlético Madrid has included Nico Gonzalez in their traveling party, despite the left wing-back being forced off with a head injury during their win over Osasuna on Saturday. Clement Lenglet is available again following suspension. Johnny Cardoso is out. Diego Simeone will be back on the touchline after serving a one-game ban.
Arsenal are looking for their 12th straight Champions League league phase or group-stage game at home without conceding a goal. Bookmakers have them as third-favourites to win the Champions League this season, and a win tonight would solidify that position.
The match will be streamed live on Amazon Prime in the UK, with coverage beginning at 6.30pm BST.
