Arsenal’s possible XI for first game after transfer window.
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Arsenal could be fielding a rather different looking starting lineup when they host Manchester City on the 13th of September – the first Premier League game after the close of the summer transfer window.
The Gunners are being linked with some big-name transfer targets after already bringing in the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Mathieu Debuchy and Calum Chambers this summer, with Arsene Wenger expected to make further additions to his squad in the next few days.
At least three new signings are looking likely to come in, and with all of them likely to become key first-team players for the Gunners, they could all feature at the Emirates Stadium in this crucial encounter in this season’s title race, with the new arrivals likely to give Wenger’s team a much-needed lift in the big games.
For a run-through of how Arsenal could line up that day with their new signings, see below.
Goalkeeper and defence:
With an £8m deal in the works to bring Olympiacos defender Kostas Manolas to Arsenal before the transfer window slams shut, the impressive young Greek international could be set for a start against the Premier League champions at the Emirates. The 23-year-old is likely to challenge Laurent Koscielny for a place at centre-back when he arrives, and could be handed a chance to impress alongside Per Mertesacker, who should be fresh by then after missing the start of the season due to his World Cup exploits with Germany earlier this summer.
Midfield:
With speculation mounting that Arsenal could be set to step up their interest in Real Madrid defensive midfielder Sami Khedirsa with a £12m bid, the German international will surely become Arsene Wenger’s instant first choice alongside the in-form Aaron Ramsey, providing the Welshman with more of an opportunity to go forward as he provides the team’s defence with some much-needed protection and shielding. William Carvalho of Sporting Lisbon could also be an option for the Gunners, but Khedira’s availability on the cheap makes him the most likely new signing in this position.
Attack:
In attack, Arsenal’s pursuit of unwanted Manchester United striker Danny Welbeck in a possible £15m deal suggests that Arsene Wenger could switch to a 4-4-2 formation this season. The England international has divided opinion during his time at Old Trafford, but could benefit greatly from the chance to play regular first-team football, particularly in a big side such as Arsenal that create plenty of chances. Lining up alongside Olivier Giroud upfront, Welbeck could provide another exciting-looking option for the team as they take on City.
Arsenal XI vs Manchester City with new signings in full:
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