Arsenal’s Team Update and Predicted Lineup Ahead of Bournemouth Match on January 3

Published On: January 2, 2026

Arsenal's Team Update and Predicted Lineup Ahead of Bournemouth Match on January 3

Telegram Channel Join Now

WhatsApp Channel Join Now

Arsenal has had a strong start to the 2025/26 season, with only two losses across all competitions. Following a defeat to Aston Villa, the Gunners rebounded with a 4-1 win against the same team in their next encounter. They remain unbeaten in the Champions League and have reached the semi-finals of the Carabao Cup. In their first match of 2026, Mikel Arteta’s team will visit Bournemouth for a 17:30 GMT kick-off. Here’s our predicted lineup for Arsenal.

Arsenal Predicted Lineup & Team News vs Bournemouth

Recent Lineup Analysis

After Manchester City‘s 0-0 draw with Sunderland, Arsenal is now four points clear at the top of the league. In their last match against Aston Villa, the Gunners utilized their regular 4-3-3 formation. David Raya was in goal, backed by defenders Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, and Piero Hincapie.

In midfield, Arteta used Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi. On the wings, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard supported Viktor Gyokeres, who hasn’t been in his best form.

Team News

In a pre-match briefing, Arteta provided updates on Declan Rice’s fitness:

“We have another training session today, and we’ll see how he feels afterward. The last game was too soon for him,” he shared at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.

“Sometimes, after an impact, adrenaline keeps you going, but then your body reacts later. Unfortunately, it reacted more than we anticipated.”

Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera are expected to miss the match due to injuries.

With Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz available, Arteta is looking forward to making some tough selection choices for upcoming matches:

“Having more options helps the team and everyone individually. That’s what we need given our packed schedule.”

“Up to now, we haven’t had that flexibility, so I’m eager to have everyone fit and performing well, allowing us to adapt during games and choose the best players for each situation.”