Arsenal predicted lineup vs Chelsea: Willian dropped, Gabriel returns

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Arsenal face a daunting task on Boxing Day as they look to secure their first win in the Premier League since November 1st.

Mikel Arteta’s side host Chelsea at the Emirates. And they will be looking to produce an improved performance having suffered three defeats in their last four in all competitions.

Arteta may not make wholesale changes from last weekend’s trip to Everton. But there has surely got to be at least one swap he makes in the forward line.

Willian’s form since his arrival has been incredibly poor. And given how Gabriel Martinelli played against Manchester City in midweek, Arteta would surely be asking for even more trouble if he picked the former Blues man – who earns £220,000-a-week, according to the Daily Mail – ahead of his countryman.

Alexandre Lacazette could also return to the starting lineup. He scored a good equaliser against City. And Eddie Nketiah has struggled to make the most of his opportunity.

Arsenal should also be able to welcome Gabriel back into the defence. The centre-back was suspended for last weekend after being sent off against Southampton, but did play in the cup.

He may join Rob Holding and David Luiz in the back three, with Kieran Tierney and Ainsley Maitland-Niles on the two flanks.

In midfield, Mohamed Elneny and Dani Ceballos may get the nod. It will be interesting however, to see whether Granit Xhaka is considered as his suspension is now over.

With that in mind, here is how Arsenal may choose to lineup on Boxing Day…