Arsenal vs Brighton: Latest team news, predicted lineup and injuries

The Gunners are looking to make it three wins from three.

Aug 28, 2024 - 20:00

Arsenal vs Brighton: Latest team news, predicted lineup and injuries

Arsenal forward Leandro Trossard — Trossard hoping to start this weekend (Picture: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Mikel Merino is set to be available to make his Arsenal debut when the Gunners take on Brighton in their Premier League clash this weekend.

The Spain international completed his switch to north London on Tuesday in a deal worth an initial £27.4million.

The Euro 2024 winner will get a few days training with his new teammates under his belt before the visit of the Seagulls, who roll into town fresh from a last-gasp victory over Manchester United last weekend.

A role off the bench could be more likely for Arsenal’s latest recruit with Mikel Arteta’s settled midfield not putting a foot wrong in their opening wins of the season against Wolves and Villa.

The Gunners boss made just one change to his side last time out at Villa Park with Jurrien Timber replacing Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back. The two offer different qualities in that position with Arteta preferring the defensive nous of the Dutchman against Villa’s forward line.

Riccardo Calafiori came onto make his debut in the second-half replacing Timber, swiftly winning over supporters in the 11 minutes he was on the pitch.

The Italy international is another option to slot into that left-back role and could have the perfect opportunity to do so and make his full debut at home on Saturday.

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori — Calafiori made his league debut at Villa Park (Picture: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Leandro Trossard replaced the reserved Gabriel Martinelli on Saturday and had an immediate impact, putting his side ahead two minutes after entering the fray.

The Belgium international offered the guile and invention Martinelli’s performances having been lacking as of late and will feel he has done more than enough to force his way into the side.

Gabriel Jesus missed that game with a groin injury, a problem that could yet force Arsenal into more transfer business before the window closes on Friday.

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Kai Havertz has been tasked with leading the line so far this term and is likely continue in that role.

Takehiro Tomiyasu and Kieran Tierney are unavailable through injury while Eddie Nketiah and Aaron Ramsdale may have played their last games for the club as they near moves away from the Emirates.