Arsenal predicted lineup vs Fulham — It’s the phrase on every Gooner’s mind as Mikel Arteta’s side prepares for a crucial Premier League return on Tuesday night. With the international break behind them, Arsenal step back into action against a tricky Fulham side, knowing anything less than a win could finally close the door on their faint title hopes.
Despite being 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, Arsenal still have reasons to push. Every point counts in this final run-in, not just for pride, but for Champions League seeding and momentum heading into next season.
Goalkeeper: David Raya
No surprises here. David Raya has been phenomenal this season and is expected to keep his spot between the sticks. He didn’t play for Spain during the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals, which means he’s fresh and ready to go. A clean sheet against Fulham could be the perfect way to remind fans why he’s Arteta’s first choice.
Right-Back: Jurrien Timber
Timber returns after shaking off an illness, and although Ben White is fully fit, Arteta seems to trust Timber’s defensive sturdiness more in games like this. Expect him to offer balance at the back while helping to build attacks from deep.
Centre-Backs: William Saliba & Gabriel Magalhães
Saliba and Gabriel remain one of the most dependable defensive duos in the league. Saliba got on the scoresheet in the reverse fixture and will want to deliver again, especially with Arsenal needing to tighten up after some recent wobbles.
Gabriel missed Brazil’s recent international fixture due to suspension, which means he’s had more recovery time than most. That freshness could be key against Fulham’s physical frontline.
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Left-Back: Myles Lewis-Skelly
Here’s where things get exciting. Teenage sensation Myles Lewis-Skelly is expected to start due to Riccardo Calafiori’s injury, and this is a big chance for the youngster. After two strong England U21 displays, he’s earned this shot — and Fulham could be the perfect opponent for him to show off his energy and ball-carrying skills.
Midfield Three: Thomas Partey, Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard
Thomas Partey looked sharp during the break, scoring twice for Ghana. That form should carry into this game as he anchors the midfield.
Ahead of him, Declan Rice will take up a more advanced role — a tactical tweak that has added a surprising attacking edge to Arsenal’s midfield in recent weeks. Alongside him, Martin Odegaard needs to find consistency. His performance for Norway was a flash of brilliance, and if he can replicate that at the Emirates, Arsenal’s creativity will thrive.
Right Wing: Ethan Nwaneri
Yes, Ethan Nwaneri gets the nod. Although Bukayo Saka is back, he’s likely to be eased in from the bench after his knock. Nwaneri was electric for England U21s and deserves another Premier League start. His flair and fearlessness could unlock Fulham’s deep block.
Centre Forward: Mikel Merino
A surprise choice in recent weeks, Mikel Merino is expected to continue up front. He’s not your typical striker, but his goal against Chelsea shows he can make things happen. Arteta may prefer his link-up play and positional intelligence, especially with limited striker options.
Left Wing: Gabriel Martinelli
It’s been a quiet season for Martinelli, but he has the edge over Trossard here, mainly due to rest and rhythm. Without the long-haul travel from South America, he’s more likely to start. Arteta will be hoping the Brazilian can rediscover some form and stretch Fulham’s full-backs with his pace.
Arsenal Predicted Lineup vs Fulham (4-3-3)
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GK: David Raya
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RB: Jurrien Timber
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CB: William Saliba
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CB: Gabriel
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LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly
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CM: Thomas Partey
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CM: Declan Rice
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CM: Martin Odegaard
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RW: Ethan Nwaneri
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ST: Mikel Merino
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LW: Gabriel Martinelli
Arsenal haven’t beaten Fulham since March 2023 — that’s a stat that will frustrate Arteta. The Gunners need to show hunger, intensity, and purpose right from the first whistle. With their title dreams hanging by a thread, every fixture is now a must-win, starting with this one.
This predicted lineup is a mix of youth and experience, giving Arsenal fans hope for both the present and the future. With Saka ready to make an impact from the bench, and a midfield that looks sharper than ever, the Gunners have no excuses.
Mikel Arteta is clearly making bold decisions in this crucial part of the season. From trusting young guns like Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, to sticking with Merino as a false nine, this lineup reflects a manager who’s not afraid to shake things up.
And it might just work.
Keep your eyes on this one — because if Arsenal can get a win here, they’ll give Liverpool something to think about ahead of the Merseyside derby. It’s now or never.
