Portsmouth Cup Tie: Team Announces 10 Key Changes

Mikel Arteta has announced significant changes to his lineup for the upcoming FA Cup third round match against Portsmouth. The team will see ten alterations, providing a fresh opportunity for several players.

Key Changes in Arsenal’s Lineup

Gabriel Jesus is set to lead the attack, marking a prominent return. The only player retained from the previous match against Liverpool is defender Gabriel. Kepa Arrizabalaga will start in goal, aiming to showcase his skills behind a revamped defense.

• Goalkeeper: Kepa Arrizabalaga
• Defenders: Ben White, Christian Norgaard, Gabriel, Myles Lewis-Skelly
• Midfield: Mikel Merino, Ethan Nwaneri, Ebere Eze
• Forwards: Gabriel Martinelli, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Jesus

Ethan Nwaneri will make his first start since defeating Slavia Prague in November. He joins Merino and Eze in midfield, with threats on the flanks posed by Martinelli and Madueke.

Bench Strength and Young Talent

Kai Havertz, recovering from injury, is positioned on the bench, alongside notable talents like Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice. The young Marli Salmon, just 16 years old, could set a record as the youngest player to feature for Arsenal in the FA Cup if he plays.

Portsmouth’s Lineup Adjustments

In response, Portsmouth has made four changes after their heavy loss to Bristol City ten days prior. Colby Bishop is back in attack, supported by Connor Chaplin. Josef Bursik takes the goalkeeping role, while Harvey Blair starts on the right wing instead of John Swift. Captain Marlon Pack returns to the bench after recovering from injury.

• Portsmouth Starting XI:
  • Josef Bursik
  • Devlin
  • Poole
  • Shaughnessy
  • Swanson
  • Dozzell
  • Le Roux
  • Segecic
  • Chaplin
  • Blair
  • Bishop
• Subs: Killip, Williams, Bowat, Oglivie, Pack, Farrell, Umeh, Swift, Kirk

The upcoming match is set to be a vital fixture for both teams as they seek to advance in the FA Cup.