Who will make Arteta’s squad of 22?

Just 17 days until Arsenal’s Premier League season begins with a visit to Old Trafford to face rivals Manchester United.

The preseason is moving along quickly, so Mikel Arteta and his staff have just a little over two weeks to get everyone healthy, match fit and ready to go for the long campaign ahead.

So far in the preseason, it’s been exciting to see the Gunners moving the ball quicker from back-to-front with longer passes. This could add a new dimension to keep opponents off-balance. with the squad blessed with ball skills and speed, this is an exciting twist as part of the tactical package for 2025/2026.

With all of that said, it’s time to think about who’s who. Of course, there is still a lot of time left before the transfer window closes, meaning a lot could still happen to impact Arsenal’s final squad.

Anyway, let’s go out on a limb and give you my expected primary XI and secondary XI for the start of the season…

Primary XI:

Eze, Gyokeres, Saka

Rice, Odegaard, Zubimendi

Lewis-Skelly, Gabriel, Saliba, Timber

Raya

Secondary XI:

Martinelli and Trossard, Havertz, Madueke

Norgaard, Nwaneri, Merino

Calafiori, Kiwior, Mosquera, White

Kepa

Still to possibly leave:

Vieira, Lokonga, Jesus, Nelson, Zinchenko, Hein

COYG!

Gunner1953