In this article, Sports Buddy looks at Wolves vs Arsenal match preview, possible lineup, prediction, player availability, and every other information regarding the game.
Wolverhampton Wanderers come face-to-face with Arsenal in a crucial Premier League encounter at Molineux Stadium on Saturday, April 20th, 2024, with kick-off set for 19:30 GMT.
Arsenal’s stuttering Title charge
The Gunners travel to Molineux needing a win to maintain their fading title hopes. Recent setbacks, including a Champions League exit and a Premier League defeat to Aston Villa, have heaped pressure on Mikel Arteta’s men. Their record at Molineux isn’t ideal either, having lost twice in their last five visits.
They find themselves just two points behind Manchester City in the Premier League standings, yet the prevailing sentiment suggests that six wins out of six should be enough for them to clinch their first league title in two decades, provided Manchester City slips off.
Arteta faces a daunting task in reviving his team’s spirits and halting their recent slump. They need a convincing display to restore confidence and demonstrate their title credentials.
Wolves Eye Upset
Despite a comfortable mid-table position, Wolves have a reputation for causing problems for big teams. They’ve already defeated Chelsea twice this season and will be aiming to add Arsenal to their list of scalps. The return of key attackers Matheus Cunha and Hee-Chan Hwang further bolsters their attacking options.
Sports Buddy previously reported that Wolves defender Matt Doherty has issued a strong warning, ahead of the game. “We’ve taken plenty of big scalps this season,” Doherty said, hinting at Wolves’ potential to upset the Gunners’ title hopes.
Currently 11th in the standings and trailing seventh-placed Manchester United by a seven-point margin, Gary O’Neil’s team remains within the discussion for continental competition.
However, their primary objective, led by the 40-year-old manager, is now focused on securing a top-half finish, especially considering the potential competition for his managerial services this summer.
Furthermore, Wolves have not kept a clean sheet in their last seven matches across all competitions. They are also in danger of suffering three consecutive home defeats for the first time since September 2021, following losses to Coventry City and West Ham United in recent weeks. Nonetheless, they have demonstrated a knack for upsetting teams in the top positions.
Team news
Wolves
Pedro Neto remains absent for Wolves, grappling with recurring injuries this season. The dynamic winger may potentially make a comeback sometime next month.
Rayan Ait-Nouri’s availability is uncertain due to a calf injury that caused him to sit out last weekend’s draw against Nottingham Forest. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde is also dealing with an ankle injury, while Craig Dawson’s participation is in doubt due to a groin issue. Dawson was listed as an unused substitute during the match at the City Ground.
Arsenal
On the injury front, Arsenal’s only concern remains at the defensive end, with Jurrien Timber steadily recovering from his ACL injury over the past eight months. However, the Dutchman is not yet ready for a first-team comeback this weekend.
Apart from Timber, Mikel Arteta has a full squad at his disposal.
Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard seem like obvious choices for inclusion from the bench, while Thomas Partey and Jakub Kiwior could also be considered by Arteta, given the quick turnaround from the Munich trip.
Wolves vs Arsenal H2H record (Last Five Games)
Wolves: 0 wins
Arsenal: 5 wins
Draws: 0
Wolves vs Arsenal: Possible lineups
According to Sports Mole here is the possible lineup for both teams:
Wolverhampton Wanderers:
Sa; S. Bueno, Toti, Kilman; Doherty, Lemina, Gomes, Doyle, H. Bueno; Sarabia, Fraser
Arsenal:
Raya; Tomiyasu, Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Saka, Jesus, Trossard
Wolves vs Arsenal Expert prediction: Wolves 1 – 2 Arsenal
This is a tough one to call. Arsenal are under pressure but possess the talent to win. However, Wolves’ home advantage and resurgent attack shouldn’t be underestimated.
A close encounter expected with Arsenal winning by a slim margin.
