Everton vs Arsenal: Match Preview & Latest Team News
Everton vs Arsenal preview as Christmas pressure mounts
There is something symbolic about Arsenal’s first visit to Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium at this stage of the season. December has a habit of sharpening the truth in the Premier League, and this rearranged match on Merseyside carries the weight of both expectation and doubt. Arsenal arrive knowing that top spot at Christmas remains within their reach, but also aware that their grip on their momentum has loosened in recent weeks.
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By the time Mikel Arteta’s side kick off on Saturday night, Manchester City may have already pushed them aside. This reality adds an edge to a match that already looks awkward, not least because Arsenal have failed to win any of their last three away league matches. Getting past Wolves last weekend offered points rather than comfort, and trips to former employers have not always been kind to Arteta.
Everton, meanwhile, were left frustrated by the defeat at Chelsea, a game which suggested David Moyes’ side remained more competitive than results alone might show. Their recent two-game winning streak ended, but not without encouragement, not least because of how difficult it is for them to collapse at home.
Christmas stakes for Arsenal’s title hopes
This is Arsenal’s penultimate outing before Christmas, and the standings give extra meaning to this match. December rarely decides championships, but it has a habit of exposing teams that lack depth or clarity. Arsenal’s away form has prompted questions, and this trip to Everton represents another test of their resilience rather than their flair.
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Arteta will want a sharper performance than the one delivered against Wolves. The Gunners controlled possession without fully controlling the game, a familiar complaint in tight away games. If City do their job earlier today, the pressure will be unmistakable and Arsenal’s response will speak volumes about their maturity.
Everton resolved in new home
For Everton, this match is also a question of identity. Welcoming Arsenal for the first time at Hill Dickinson Stadium provides a statement-making opportunity, both for players and supporters still adjusting to new surroundings. Moyes has built his team around organization and effort, qualities which often disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm.
Injuries, however, complicate Everton’s preparation. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall is a doubt after limping off against Chelsea, while Jack Grealish faces a race against time with a hamstring problem. Idrissa Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye are on mission for the CAN, and absentees such as Jarrad Branthwaite and Seamus Coleman further reduce the options. Despite this, Everton have shown the ability to remain competitive regardless of personnel.
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Team news and tactical choices
Arsenal’s injury list is significant. Ben White, Gabriel, Kai Havertz, Cristhian Mosquera and Max Dowman are all unavailable, forcing adjustments on both ends of the court. Riccardo Calafiori returns from suspension, while Martin Zubimendi is expected to be fit despite missing training earlier in the week.
Selection decisions on offense can prove decisive. Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli struggled to establish themselves against Wolves, opening the door for Noni Madueke, Gabriel Jesus or Martin Odegaard to start. Arsenal’s ability to move the ball quickly through Everton’s compact shape will likely determine the outcome.
Everton vs Arsenal Prediction
A rare week without midweek action could help Arsenal regain some energy. Everton will make this uncomfortable, but if the pressure comes early, Arsenal have the quality to respond. Expect control rather than spectacle, and a result that keeps the title race close.
Prediction, Arsenal will win 3-1.