Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction: Lineups, Team News, Injury And Preview

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Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen: Friendly Clash at the Emirates

Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen Prediction: Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen are likely to play out an entertaining 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium, with both teams showcasing their attacking prowess in this pre-season friendly.

As the new season approaches, Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen are set to face off in an intriguing pre-season friendly at the Emirates Stadium. This match pits Mikel Arteta’s Premier League runners-up against Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga champions in what promises to be an exciting encounter.

Match Preview

Arsenal return to their home turf after concluding their USA tour with a narrow 2-1 loss to Liverpool. The Gunners will be eager to bounce back and showcase their prowess in front of the home crowd. Meanwhile, Bayer Leverkusen arrive in London fresh off an unbeaten Bundesliga campaign, looking to maintain their impressive form.

This friendly marks a reunion of sorts, as former Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka is expected to feature for Leverkusen against his old club. The Swiss international’s return adds an extra layer of intrigue to the match.

Arsenal vs Bayer Leverkusen Lineups and Formations

Arsenal Lineup (4-3-3): Timber, Martinelli, Havertz, Partey, Gabriel, White, Zinchenko, Nelson, Jesus, Odegaard, Hein

Arteta is likely to field a strong XI, with several key players back from international duty. The recent signing of Riccardo Calafiori may see limited action as he is gradually integrated into the squad.

Bayer Leverkusen Lineup (4-2-3-1): Garcia, Hradecky, Tah, Tella, Boniface, Terrier, Xhaka, Kossounou, Belocian, Wirtz, Hincapie

Xabi Alonso’s side is expected to line up in their familiar formation, with Xhaka anchoring the midfield alongside Garcia.

Injury Updates

Arsenal are dealing with injuries to Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu, while Leverkusen will be without full-backs Jeremie Frimpong and Alejandro Grimaldo, who are on extended holidays following international duty. Young midfielder Matija Marsenic is sidelined with a cruciate ligament injury for the German side.

Where to Watch

The match will be broadcast live on arsenal.com for international viewers. Fans in various countries can tune in to their local sports channels, with coverage available on platforms such as Solh Sports 1 in Afghanistan, DeporTV in Argentina, and Servus TV in Austria and Germany.

Form and Recent Performances

Arsenal’s pre-season has been largely positive, with wins over Preston North End and Manchester United, and a draw against Bournemouth (won on penalties). Their recent loss to Liverpool was their first setback of the summer.

Bayer Leverkusen have had a steady warm-up period, securing a 2-1 victory over Rot-Weiss Essen and drawing 2-2 with Lens in their most recent outing.

Head-to-Head

Historically, these teams have met only twice in competitive fixtures, both occurring in the 2001-02 Champions League second group stage. The encounters resulted in a 1-1 draw in Germany and a convincing 4-1 win for Arsenal at Highbury.

Who Will Win?

Given Arsenal’s home advantage and the return of several key players, they may have a slight edge. However, Leverkusen’s impressive unbeaten run last season suggests they won’t be pushovers. A high-scoring draw seems likely, with both teams finding the net in an entertaining affair.

Predicted Score: Arsenal 2-2 Bayer Leverkusen

Key Players to Watch

For Arsenal, keep an eye on Kai Havertz, who scored against Liverpool and will be keen to impress against German opposition. Florian Wirtz could be the danger man for Leverkusen, with his creative prowess in midfield.

This friendly presents an excellent opportunity for both teams to gauge their preparedness for the upcoming season. For Arsenal, it’s a chance to fine-tune their tactics and integrate returning players. Leverkusen, on the other hand, will look to prove that their domestic success can translate to strong performances against top European opposition. Football fans can expect an engaging match showcasing attacking flair and tactical nous from both sides.

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