EPL: Arsenal vs Chelsea tactics, team news, head-to-head, predictions

Actions will hold in the English Premier League before the upcoming international break between Arsenal and Chelsea. Both London clubs are set to renew their storied rivalry at the Emirates Stadium this weekend Sunday, March 16, 2025 by 2:30 PM (GMT). Both teams come into this fixture with contrasting forms and aspirations, for the Gunners, it is to increase their chances of getting the title while the Blues perhaps want to solidify their position in the top four, making this encounter pivotal for their respective campaigns.

Arsenal recent performances

Arsenal have showcased resilience in recent fixtures, notably progressing to the Champions League quarter-finals with a commanding 9-3 aggregate victory over PSV. However, their domestic form has been inconsistent, with recent setbacks including a 2-0 home defeat to Aston Villa. This inconsistency has seen them oscillate in the league standings, underscoring the need for stability.

Chelsea recent performances

Under the stewardship of Enzo Maresca, have experienced a tumultuous season. While their home form has been commendable, their struggles on the road are evident, being winless in their last six away league matches. Despite these challenges, they remain within touching distance of the top four, making this derby crucial for their aspirations.

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Arsenal tactical approach

Mikel Arteta has instilled a possession-based approach, emphasizing building from the back and fluid attacking movements. The midfield trio, often led by captain Martin Ødegaard, orchestrates play, with wingers like Bukayo Saka providing width and creativity. Defensively, the emphasis is on a high press to regain possession swiftly.

Chelsea tactical approach

Maresca’s Chelsea employs a dynamic 4-3-3 formation, focusing on quick transitions and exploiting spaces behind opposition defenses. The midfield, anchored by Enzo Fernández, balances defensive duties with initiating attacks. Wingers such as Cole Palmer and Pedro Neto are pivotal in stretching defenses and creating goal-scoring opportunities.

Arsenal team news and injuries

Brazilian winger, Gabriel Martinelli has recovered from a hamstring injury and is expected to start, potentially in the central forward role, while Bukayo Saka remains doubtful due to a hamstring concern; a late fitness test will determine his availability. Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are sidelined with a hamstring injury and an ACL injury respectively but the later has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Hence, Arteta faces a serious concern in filling up the attacking void in his team.

Chelsea team news and injuries

Chelsea on the other hand are not spared from injury woes. Enzo Maresca attacking options has been plagued with injuries that could keep his side struggling in more matches. Nicolas Jackson, Marc Guiu, Noni Madueke have been all ruled out with hamstring injuries, while Mykhaylo Mudryk is serving a suspension and will miss the fixture. In the defense, Malo Gusto remains doubtful with an ankle knock; his participation remains uncertain.

Arsenal possible lineup and formation (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Raya. Defenders: Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly. Midfielders: Odegaard, Partey, Rice. Forwards: Nwaneri, Martinelli, Trossard.

Chelsea possible lineup and formation (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper: Sanchez. Defenders: James, Tosin, Colwill, Cucurella. Midfielders: Caicedo, Fernandez. Forwards: Sancho, Palmer, Nkunku; Neto

Arsenal vs Chelsea head-to-head statistics

Arsenal have been dominant in recent Premier League encounters against Chelsea, losing just once in their last eight meetings (five wins, two draws). Their last clash at the Emirates resulted in a 3-1 victory for the Gunners, with Odegaard netting a brace. Chelsea’s last league win at the Emirates dates back to December 2019.

Arsenal vs Chelsea match prediction

Considering current form, home advantage, and recent head-to-head statistics, Arsenal appear to have the upper hand. However, derbies are notoriously unpredictable. A closely contested match is anticipated, with Arsenal edging out a narrow victory. Predicted Scoreline: Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea. This fixture promises intensity and drama, characteristic of London derbies, with both teams eager to secure bragging rights and crucial points for their campaign.