Arsenal lineup vs. Newcastle: Predicted XI for pre-season friendly as Cristhian Mosquera decision made
Sports Mole takes an in-depth look at how Arsenal could line up for Sunday’s pre-season friendly against Newcastle United.
The 21-year-old’s arrival from Valencia was confirmed on Thursday, almost one week on from his signing accidentally being leaked online and a few hours after he was pictured in Singapore with some of his new teammates.
Mosquera flew out to the Far East on Tuesday and thus has already had ample time to gel with the Gunners, so it would not be a complete surprise to see him make the starting XI against the Magpies.
Mosquera’s case is further strengthened by a couple of fitness concerns at the back for Arsenal, as Jurrien Timber has not trained fully since his ankle operation, while Gabriel Magalhaes is nursing a minor injury.
As a result, Mosquera and Jakub Kiwior could operate in front of Kepa Arrizabalaga – also in line for a full debut after saving three penalties against AC Milan in midweek – while Myles Lewis-Skelly could replace Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back.
A new-look midfield could also comprise Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, as the former replaces Ethan Nwaneri in spite of the teenager’s effervescent first-half performance in midweek.
As Viktor Gyokeres is yet to officially come through the door, Kai Havertz will hold the fort up front again, most likely with Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard either side of him as Arteta errs on the side of caution with 15-year-old Max Dowman.
Arsenal possible starting lineup:
Kepa; White, Mosquera, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Merino; Saka, Havertz, Trossard