Arsenal traveled to the Vitality Stadium to face Bournemouth in a Premier League clash this afternoon, with the chance to extend their lead at the top of the table. Following Manchester City's goalless draw against Sunderland, the Gunners had an opportunity to create a significant gap between themselves and their title rivals. A win would put them six points clear of Manchester City, although City would have a game in hand.

Arsenal is aiming to avenge their 2-0 defeat against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium last season. However, they face a Bournemouth side that, despite not being in their best form, recently took points off Chelsea.

Going into the match, there was uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Declan Rice, who had been suffering from a knee issue. Despite the injury doubt, Rice was spotted with the squad.

Mikel Arteta made three changes to the Arsenal side that defeated Aston Villa 4-1. Declan Rice returned to the starting lineup, replacing Mikel Merino. The Arsenal lineup included Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie, Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard, Madueke, Martinelli, and Gyokeres. Bournemouth started with Petrovic, Jimenez, Hill, Senesi, Truffert, Scott, Tavernier, Brooks, Kluivert, Semenyo, and Evanilson.

Arsenal are looking to capitalize on their recent form, particularly their impressive second-half performance against Aston Villa, where they scored four goals. The victory over Villa has boosted confidence within the squad. Meanwhile, Bournemouth are hoping to end their ten-game winless run in the league.

Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal's injury situation has improved recently but confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori would miss the Bournemouth game. There was also a decision to be made upfront, with Gabriel Jesus potentially replacing Viktor Gyokeres in the starting lineup. Kai Havertz may also make his return to the side from the bench.