Arsenal is set to face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday in their first match of the new year. Mikel Arteta’s team currently leads the Premier League table and aims to secure crucial points against the struggling Cherries.
Fraser Forster Joins Bournemouth
Bournemouth has registered veteran goalkeeper Fraser Forster for their upcoming clash against Arsenal. The 37-year-old recently left Tottenham and has been a free agent since this summer. Despite being an experienced player with past stints at Newcastle, Southampton, and Celtic, it is expected that Forster will only come into play if Djordje Petrovic encounters issues during the match.
Bournemouth’s Goalkeeping Concerns
- Bournemouth’s only fit senior goalkeeper, Petrovic, has had a challenging season.
- He has conceded 29 goals in 17 appearances this season.
- The team currently sits 15th in the Premier League, just nine points above the relegation zone.
- Petrovic has failed to keep a clean sheet since their goalless draw with Chelsea in early December.
Arsenal’s Title Aspirations
Arsenal is currently four points clear at the top of the Premier League standings. They have scored a total of 37 goals this season, with Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyokeres being key contributors, each netting five goals. However, injuries may pose challenges for Arteta’s squad.
Injury Updates
- Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera will not participate in this weekend’s match.
- Declan Rice’s availability is uncertain due to knee swelling.
Mikel Arteta’s Respect for Bournemouth
Arteta has expressed great respect for Bournemouth and their coach Andoni Iraola, praising their ability to make matches difficult for their opponents. He acknowledges the significant challenge ahead as they prepare to compete against a team that has had mixed results this season.
Upcoming Challenges for Arsenal
A victory against Bournemouth is crucial for Arsenal in the title race. Following this match, they will face a series of significant contests:
- January 12: Liverpool (Premier League)
- January 15: Portsmouth (FA Cup)
- January 18: Chelsea (League Cup)
- Followed by matches against Nottingham Forest, Inter Milan, Kairat, Manchester United, and Leeds.
With a busy schedule ahead, consistent performances will be essential for Arsenal as they aim to maintain their lead in the league and compete across multiple tournaments.
