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Arsenal bounced back impressively from their 1-0 loss to Inter at the Giuseppe Meazza, thrashing Sporting 1-5 in Portugal. This dominant victory was followed by another 2-5 win at West Ham in the Premier League, marking their second consecutive league victory after a 3-0 triumph over Nottingham Forest.
In the Champions League, Arteta’s team is ranked in the top eight, sharing the same points as their upcoming opponents, making this match a significant one for both sides. Arsenal’s preparations included Premier League encounters with United and Fulham. Meanwhile, AS Monaco began their season with a strong 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Louis II.
The Monegasques continued their strong run with a 2-2 draw at Dinamo Zagreb in heavy rain, followed by a 5-1 win over Red Star Belgrade at home and a 1-0 victory over Bologna away. However, they were defeated by Benfica 2-3 in a match marred by questionable refereeing, despite a resilient performance, including a goal while playing with ten men. Monaco also suffered a 2-1 loss to Marseille in Ligue 1.
Unlike their rivals Manchester City, Arsenal has fewer injury concerns, with only Japanese international Tomiyasu and full-back Ben White unavailable. Arteta has a full squad to choose from, including key players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and Gabriel, who has been in excellent form. William Saliba is expected to start, solidifying Arsenal’s defense. Central defender Singo is suspended for this match after being excluded against Benfica.
Monaco, on the other hand, will miss Coulibaly (yet to play this season), Diatta (with six Ligue 1 appearances), and young midfielder Diop due to injury. However, Moroccan international Ben Seghir, who impressed with four goals and three assists in Ligue 1, will feature, along with Embolo, playmaker Golovin (two goals in Ligue 1), and Akliouche (two goals and one assist in the Champions League).
Prediction
Monaco has struggled on the road recently, suffering nine defeats in 13 Ligue 1 away matches. In contrast, Arsenal seems to have overcome a rough patch, winning two of their last three games. Based on current form, Arsenal is favored to win.
Prediction: Arsenal 2 – 1 Monaco
