Nicholas Pepe cost his Arsenal teammates any real chance of a victory against Leeds United when he lashed out with an unintelligent headbutt on Leeds wing back Ezgjan Alioski. As a result of this rash moment from Pepe, The Gunners will be without his services for the next three Premier League games. Arsenals Willian also looks to be a doubt for the next game against Wolves after being substituted at half time vs Leeds.
What this means for Arsenal's starlets
These three games could provide a fantastic opportunity for versatile attackers Bukayo Saka and Reiss Nelson. Both of these youngsters have been shining lights in Arsenal’s underwhelming start to the 20/21 Premier League campaign. Nelson has seriously impressed in the Europa League so far this season whilst Saka’s impressive displays in all competitions have earned him a call up to the England national team.
The Gunners have struggled with finding their best attacking combination so far this season, however, the injury to Willian and Pepe’s suspension could force Mikel Arleta’s hand and have to play one or both of the Arsenal youngsters. A front three of Nelson, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Saka would have lots of pace and direct running.
Saka and Nelson's best abilities
Bukayo Saka and Reiss Nelson play without fear and both of their best attributes are their willingness to take players on no matter what. They have high energy and are always pressing and working hard for the team effort.
This opportunity for Nelson especially could be that real chance that the young starlet has been waiting for. Nelson will be hoping to impress the Arsenal boss and give Arteta a real selection headache and an argument for him to be included regularly in and around the Arsenal starting XI.
Bitesize preview Wolves (a)
Looking ahead to when Arsenal take on Wolves this Sunday 29th November. A front three of Nelson, Aubameyang and Saka could seriously hurt Wolves backline and stretch them with the pace and trickery that they possess. Arsenal will be hoping the likes of Dani Ceballos and Joe Willock will be able to add that creative spark that The Gunners have been missing recently and create chances for the Arsenal front three.