Arsenal welcome Brighton to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night for their EFL Cup fourth-round clash, with Mikel Arteta expected to rotate heavily following Sunday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace.
The Gunners sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League and remain perfect in Europe, but that success has come at a cost.
William Saliba, Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Martinelli all picked up knocks at the weekend, while Bukayo Saka has been battling illness.
With several key players sidelined — including Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus — Arteta is likely to turn to Arsenal’s emerging talents and recent signings as he manages fitness and minutes across competitions.
Arsenal Predicted XI vs Brighton: Carabao Cup Lineup
Kepa Arrizabalaga; Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapié, Myles Lewis-Skelly; Christian Nørgaard, Mikel Merino, Eberechi Eze; Ethan Nwaneri, Viktor Gyökeres, Leandro Trossard.
In goal, Kepa Arrizabalaga will continue as Arsenal’s designated cup keeper, providing valuable experience and composure at the back.
Ben White, recently returned from injury, is set to start at right-back as he looks to regain his rhythm.
In central defence, Cristhian Mosquera could replace William Saliba after the Frenchman’s early withdrawal against Crystal Palace.
All eyes will be on summer signing Piero Hincapié, who is poised for his full debut and should partner Mosquera.
On the left, teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly could replace Riccardo Calafiori, adding youthful energy and versatility to the back line.
In midfield, with Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice sidelined, Eberechi Aze is expected to once again shoulder the creative burden after scoring the match-winning goal against Palace.
He will likely be joined by fellow summer signing Christian Nørgaard, whose defensive awareness and passing range offer control in transition.
Mikel Merino is also tipped to start, providing balance and stability in the centre of the park.
Up front, Arsenal’s attacking trio should feature a mix of youth and experience. Ethan Nwaneri, 19, is in line for another opportunity on the right, while Leandro Trossard should continue on the left with Gabriel Martinelli a doubt due to minor muscle issues.
Leading the line, Viktor Gyökeres is expected to retain his place with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz still sidelined.
Arteta is likely to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 setup, though flexibility in attack remains a hallmark of his system. The back four will feature a refreshed look, with Nørgaard anchoring midfield to shield the centre-backs.
Eze, supported by Merino’s control and link play, will drive creativity through midfield. In the final third, the trio of Nwaneri, Gyökeres, and Trossard provide a dynamic mix of flair, directness, and finishing — ensuring Arsenal remain a serious threat despite heavy rotation.
Even with key players absent, Arteta’s rotated side will aim to maintain the defensive discipline and attacking fluency that have defined their season so far.
