Saliba Starts in Carabao Cup Semi-Final: Pre-Match Report
Mikel Arteta has made significant adjustments to the squad for the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea. Eight changes were implemented, including the return of key players William Saliba and Leandro Trossard. Both players previously missed the FA Cup victory at Portsmouth.
Match Line-Up Details
Starting in goal for Arsenal is Kepa Arrizabalaga. This match marks his first encounter against Chelsea, his former team. The defense features Saliba and Gabriel as central defenders, supported by Ben White and Jurrien Timber.
This match is also notable for Declan Rice, who celebrates his birthday by starting in midfield alongside Martin Zubimendi and captain Martin Odegaard. The attacking trio includes Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Viktor Gyokeres.
Chelsea’s Line-Up Changes
In response, Chelsea’s manager Liam Rosenior has also made eight changes. Notable players, including Andrey Santos, Marc Guiu, and Josh Acheampong, retained their positions following a recent 5-1 victory against Charlton.
Full Team Line-Ups
| Arsenal | Chelsea |
|---|---|
| Kepa | Sanchez |
| White | Acheampong |
| Timber | Chalobah |
| Saliba | Fofana |
| Gabriel | Cucurella |
| Rice | Enzo |
| Zubimendi | Andrey Santos |
| Odegaard (C) | Estevao |
| Saka | Joao Pedro |
| Gyokeres | Neto |
| Trossard | Guiu |
Substitutes for Arsenal include Raya, Jesus, Eze, Martinelli, Norgaard, Madueke, Merino, Havertz, and Lewis-Skelly. For Chelsea, the bench consists of Jorgensen, Badiashille, Tosin, Hato, Essugo, Buonanotte, Garnacho, George, and Mhueka.
As the teams prepare for kick-off, fans can look forward to an exciting match filled with tactical adjustments and star players in action. For further analysis, check out El-Balad’s pre-match coverage featuring stats, quotes, and other insights.
