Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal squad are entering their upcoming match against West Ham United with renewed confidence, eager to reduce the gap between themselves and league leaders Liverpool. This weekend's fixture presents a crucial opportunity for Arsenal, who previously triumphed over West Ham with a decisive 5-2 victory in November when Julen Lopetegui was still managing the Hammers. However, since Graham Potter took over, West Ham has struggled significantly, currently sitting in 16th place after a disappointing 1-0 loss at home against Brentford last Saturday.
The Premier League clash will take place at the Emirates Stadium in London, kicking off on Saturday, February 22, at 3:00 p.m. local time.
Watching the Match
For fans located outside the UK, accessing the match may require the use of a virtual private network (VPN) to bypass regional restrictions. A reliable option for streaming is NordVPN, which provides a secure connection. For more information on choosing the best VPN for sports streaming, GOAL offers a comprehensive guide.
Arsenal's Team Updates
Arsenal may consider using Merino as an emergency striker, allowing Leandro Trossard to return to his preferred position on the left wing. The team is generally in a strong position across the pitch, bolstered by the impressive performances of young talents like Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly this season.
Injury Updates:
- OUT: Kai Havertz (hamstring), Gabriel Jesus (torn ACL, out for the season), Bukayo Saka (hamstring), Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee), Gabriel Martinelli (hamstring).
West Ham's Team Updates
West Ham also faces challenges in their attacking lineup. Despite efforts from players like Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paqueta, and Kudus, the absence of a natural striker has hindered their offensive capabilities. Many players seem to be struggling to adapt to Potter's tactical approach.
Injury Updates:
- OUT: Lucas Paqueta (ankle), Niclas Fullkrug (hamstring), Michail Antonio (details pending), Crysencio Summerville (hamstring).
- QUESTIONABLE: Vladimir Coufal (hamstring).
Match Analysis
While Arsenal may not currently be the most clinical team in front of goal, they possess a wealth of creativity that should prove effective against a West Ham side grappling with form. With Ethan Nwaneri showcasing his skills, Arsenal has the attacking power necessary to penetrate a West Ham defense that has failed to keep a clean sheet in 2025.
West Ham's confidence is at a low point, presenting Arsenal with the perfect opportunity to capitalize on this vulnerability and close the gap on Liverpool. A victory in this match would increase the pressure on the league leaders ahead of their critical encounter with Manchester City on Sunday.
Prediction
Arsenal is expected to secure a 2-0 victory over West Ham.
Top Scorers
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Arsenal FC:
- Kai Havertz: Leads the team with 21 shots resulting in nine goals.
- Gabriel Martinelli: Second-highest scorer with six goals from 20 shots.
- Declan Rice: Not a leading scorer but pivotal with five assists and 36 chances created over 24 matches.
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West Ham United:
- Jarrod Bowen: Top scorer with six goals in 21 games, averaging 2.0 shots per game.
- Tomas Soucek: Contributed five goals in 23 matches.
- Bowen is also West Ham’s leading playmaker, having created 35 chances and recorded six assists.
Zainab Y.
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