Arsenal - Chelsea: Predicted XI

As Arsene Wenger looks to break the irritating record of zero wins against Jose Mourinho, Chilean Pele looks to identify a potential team selection for the clash at the Emirates.

Arsenal - Chelsea: Predicted XI
Will Sanchez and Cazorla make a return?
thechileanpele
By Chilean Pele

Arsenal host Chelsea in the four o'clock kick off on Super Sunday, and a win would place the club in pole position to get second for the first time in a decade.

It is likely to be a game similar to Chelsea against Manchester United, with the Gunners having the ball and Chelsea playing for an efficient counter. Therefore it is vital that the team has the right balance defensively but also the ruthlessness offensively.

David Ospina:

The Colombian has established himself as Arsenal's number one, and is certain to start. Arsenal have only ever lost one Premier League match with him in goal, and his reflexes in addition to his shot stopping will be crucial in preventing Chelsea from getting that vital first goal.

Mathieu Debuchy:

While he has just come back from injury, the manager will likely to be inclined to start the 30 year-old Frenchman. Having already got 120 minutes under his belt at Wembley, his experience will be paramount in stopping Eden Hazard.

Per Mertesacker:

Injury was probably his only barrier to start, but having trained yesterday it seems he will pass fit. His partnership with Koscielny has recently been similar to their formidable pairing last season.

Laurent Koscielny:

Demonstrably one of Arsenal's most important players, with poor form in his absence testament to this. Brilliant player and will be crucial in stopping Chelsea's efficient and aggressive counter attacks.

Nacho Monreal:

After Gibbs' surprising shocker against Reading, Monreal will almost certainly start. He is a man in form who likes to get forward without neglecting his defensive work. Another key component to this Arsenal team.

Francis Coquelin:

As Thierry Henry describes him, Arsenal's 'police officer'. Paramount in breaking up attacks, passionate but cool under pressure, as long as he remains disciplined he will contribute heavily to Arsenal's defensive duties.

Santi Cazorla:

Had a good game against Reading and will continue playing in that deep lying playmaker role. While players like Wilshere can leave their partner isolated, Cazorla is aware of his duties and will hopefully put in a disciplined performance.

Aaron Ramsey:

While his deployment wide is probably to accommodate Cazorla, his work rate and tireless effort will be important in stopping Eden Hazard. While it did not work against Reading, he needs to make sure he provides width like against Liverpool.

Mesut Ozil:

A man who looks to be back in form, Arsenal's German playmaker is among the nominees for Player of the Month and should start. Picking up two assists at Wembley, his surreal vision and connection with Alexis Sanchez will be important for the Gunners.

Alexis Sanchez:

The Chilean is one of the first names on the teamsheet right now, with two goals to secure passage to the FA Cup final last week. His pace, finishing and work rate will all be crucial.

Olivier Giroud:

One of the best hold-up plays in the country, the Frenchman is looking a new man and is brilliantly in form right now. Changing the game at Wembley, he will likely lead the line in this crucial clash at the Emirates.