For the first time, Mikel Arteta has decided to start new record signing Declan Rice. The England international came on against the All-Stars in the second half and provided a glimpse of what he can bring to this Arsenal team with quick passing, driving runs and progression.
United will bring a different test, however. Along with Rice, the selection sees plenty of first-team stars in something which could be closer to the team that Arteta might choose when the Premier League returns.
Aaron Ramsdale starts in goal with Jurrien Timber at right back. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes partner once again meaning that Ben White sees his space in the back four lost. Takehiro Tomiyasu is the left-back meaning we should see Timber play an inverted role on the right.
In midfield joining Rice is Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard who many have been intrigued to see how the trio performs from the start. Havertz scored against the All-Stars, tweeting “Hav that” after the game in response to his critics; another goal tonight would really help his profile.
In the forward line, the starting front three of Edie Nketiah, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli sees both Gabriel Jesus and Folarin Balogun on the bench once again. Balogun might be asking why he was not given the chance here?
All the coverage from the game can be followed on our football.london live blog here. Arsenal vs Manchester United kicks off at 10 pm UK time.
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