Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson expects his former club to record a narrow victory against Aston Villa at the Emirates this weekend. In his prediction for Sportskeed, Merson points out that the match will be extremely tense, but believes that Arsenal will be able to continue their successful run after winning the derby against Tottenham.
“Aston Villa prevented Arsenal from winning the title last season, and that result will be on the minds of the players,” wrote Merson. He adds that Villa have enough quality, especially in attack, with players such as Morgan Rodgers and Olly Watkins, to threaten Arsenal.
Merson has predicted a 2-1 victory for Arsenal, stressing that this result would be good considering the quality of their opponents. “Arsenal need to start the game strong and impose their style of play, as Villa have not had a good performance away from home,” he added.
In terms of team news, Arsenal will be without several key players, including Gabriel Jesus, who is likely to be out until September with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Bukayo Saka and Ben White are also doubtful, as are Ethan Nwaneri and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Aston Villa will also be weakened, with the likes of Diego Carlos, Paulo Torres and John McGinn all out with injuries.
The Arsenal-Aston Villa match promises to be an exciting one, with both teams fighting for important points in the race for the top of the table.
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