A tantalizing London derby takes place in-game week two of the new Premier League season, as Arsenal and Chelsea face off at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Arsenal opened the new campaign with a dismal 2-0 defeat at Brentford last Friday, whereas Chelsea’s side eased to a 3-0 success over Crystal Palace.
It was days after Arsenal’s defeat that it was confirmed that Aubameyang and Lacazette’s ‘illnesses’ were in fact COVID-19, as the two strikers were ruled out on the morning of the Brentford game before Arteta’s side were taught a footballing lesson by Brentford.
Many believed that a campaign without European football would only benefit Arsenal domestically, but the Gunners kicked off the season in the manner that Gooners feared following an equally woeful pre-season period.
However, as disgruntled supporters prepare to make their return to the Emirates, with the potential absences of Aubameyang and Lacazette being well and truly felt in the Emirates.
While their London counterparts were being humbled, Chelsea simply cruised to three points in a capital derby of their own, striking three times without reply against Crystal Palace in front of the Stamford Bridge faithful.
Keeping the momentum going from their enthralling yet draining victory over Villarreal in the Super Cup, Chelsea has already risen to second in the fledgling standings. However, the Champions League holders will undoubtedly have their eyes set on wrestling the crown of Manchester City’s hands.
The Line-Up
Arteta has admitted that his COVID-positive contingent is “still very uncertain” for Sunday’s game. Meanwhile, Aubameyang and Willian are set to be assessed while Lacazette and Runarsson prepare to miss out.
The home side also remains without Gabriel, Partey, and Nketiah through injury, while Odegaard who arrived from Real Madrid permanently will not feature just yet due to visa issues.
Arsenal also announced Aaron Ramsdale’s arrival on Friday evening, and he should be in contention to feature. But, Bernd Leno will expect to retain the gloves for the time being.
In two huge boosts to Chelsea, new arrival Romelu Lukaku and N’Golo Kante could be given the green light to line up at the Emirates, with the latter aiming to shake off an ankle problem in time to be available.
Hakim Ziyech also has a chance of returning from a shoulder problem, while Christian Pulisic and Ruben Loftus Cheek have both tested positive for coronavirus.
Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell, and Reece James had to be on the bench last week, and it is difficult to see any member of the trio forcing their way back into the first XI for Sunday’s match.