Arsenal dream line-up vs Atletico Madrid as Lewis-Skelly and Martinelli decisions made

football.london writers give their thoughts on who Arsenal should start against Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League

Arsenal welcome Atletico Madrid to the Emirates Stadium, looking to make it three wins from three in their UEFA Champions League campaign. Mikel Arteta knows that this will be one of his toughest tests of the league phase.

He has done so without several key figures, while Atleti have only Johnny Cardoso missing from their squad. Plenty of familiar faces to Arsenal fans like Conor Gallagher Clement Lenglet and Julian Alvarez who have experience in England’s top flight.

There are plenty of danger points the Gunners must be aware of. football.london’s writers have given their thoughts on what they think the Spaniard should go for.

Tom Canton

It says something perhaps about the challenge of the Premier League that there is a greater feeling of comfort in making changes against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League than against Fulham away. But that is just how tough away trips in England have become.

But that is indeed the reality facing Mikel Arteta as he considers changes for his side this midweek. Several players, including Mikel Merino, who spoke to the media on Monday afternoon, could then come in.

Cristhian Mosquera and Myles Lewis-Skelly are another two who can comfortably allow some current starters a breather while maintaining the quality of the group.

Canton’s Arsenal XI vs Atletico Madrid – Raya; Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Rice, Merino; Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

Patrick Austen-Hardy

Arsenal know what Atletico Madrid will bring - Two, burly banks of deep defensive lines! There will be little room in the middle of the pitch, so Mikel Arteta will need his players to find the tiny half-spaces and exploit them.

However, Atletico's counter-attack must also be respected, which is why Mikel Merino may also be given the nod in midfield. Myles Lewis-Skelly for Riccardo Calafiori is a brave move, but the England international's extra creativity will help break down Diego Simeone's stubborn resistance.

Gabriel Martinelli has been excellent in recent weeks, but with no space in behind, his best traits will be mooted. Should Arsenal take the lead, Arteta will surely look to bring the Brazilian on to get in behind!

Austen-Hardy’s Arsenal XI vs Atletico Madrid: Raya, Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Zubimendi, Merino, Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard