Isak and Williams sign, Gabriel leaves: Arsenal predicted XI for first 25/26 match

03/20/2025 11:42 AM

Arsenal look set to revamp their frontline this summer after failing to secure an attacking signing in January and leading that charge could be a blockbuster move for Alexander Isak.

For the third consecutive season, Arsenal are likely to fall just short in the Premier League title race, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points.

With only the Champions League left to fight for, they are on the edge of disappointment. Five years into Mikel Arteta's reign, silverware remains elusive—unless they can conjure something truly historic in Europe and all the disappointment from this season will quickly vanish.

Injuries have played their part, with key figures like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard enduring extended spells on the sidelines, while Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are out for the remainder of the campaign.

Arteta's demeanour in recent interviews suggests the weight of those setbacks is taking its toll. His admission that the title race is slipping away only fuels speculation over what might have been: If only the club had strengthened in January.

With Mikel Merino leading the line in an unfamiliar role, the need for reinforcements is glaringly obvious. A refreshed attack feels inevitable, and it's something fans have been crying out for.

As Arsenal prepare for a summer of change, here's how Football Insider predicts they could line up for the opening game of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Benjamin White to return whilst Marc Guehi to replace Gabriel amid Saudi Arabia speculation

David Raya
Raya has silenced his critics, proving that Arsenal's decision to bring him in and challenge Aaron Ramsdale was justified. While his distribution can be erratic at times, his commanding presence and unwavering confidence at the back have been invaluable. However, with Arsenal linked to Joan Garcia, the competition for the number-one spot could be about to intensify.

Ben White
White's four-month absence this season served as a stark reminder of just how crucial he is to Arsenal's system. It's as if he has Arteta's tactics ingrained in every fibre of his game, executing them with precision. His connection with Saka and Odegaard has been missed, but with Jurrien Timber thriving since his return, White faces a battle to reclaim his starting spot—though given his importance, it's only a matter of time.

William Saliba
Young French talents thriving at Arsenal is a tradition embedded in the club's DNA, and Saliba is the latest to carry that legacy forward. Despite Real Madrid's interest in Saliba, his heart seems firmly in North London, where he has established himself as one of the league's most dominant centre-halves. Effortless in his movement yet relentless in his duels, he's been hailed as the 'Kylian Mbappe of centre-backs'—and with good reason.

Marc Guehi
With Gabriel being linked with a move to Al-Nassr, Arsenal will need an elite-level replacement should he depart. Enter Marc Guehi. Football Insider revealed that Guehi is Arsenal's top defensive target, and his consistency at the heart of Palace's backline speaks for itself. He possesses the same physical dominance as Gabriel but also offers an added level of composure in build-up play—qualities that make him a seamless fit for Arteta's defensive blueprint.

Myles Lewis-Skelly
Hale End's ability to produce top-tier talent is an integral part of Arsenal's identity, and Lewis-Skelly is the latest breakout star. In a season of frustration, he has been a rare bright spark. His dominance, strength, and composure at just 18 years old are almost unheard of. Arsenal may have just saved themselves millions in the transfer market because they've already got a future star in their ranks.

Martin Zubimendi to anchor Arsenal’s midfield alongside Declan Rice

Martin Zubimendi
Arsenal have already agreed a deal in principle for Martin Zubimendi—a move that may have surprised some. A double pivot with Declan Rice? A lone six? Arteta has his plans for the Spaniard, who has the ability to control a midfield on his own with slick passing and composure under pressure. England saw first-hand how he dictated the game after replacing Rodri in the Euro 2024 final, and that alone is a testament to his quality. An exciting signing that could finally solve Arsenal's long-standing need for a defensive midfielder.

Declan Rice
Rice continues to prove that, somehow, for £105 million, he looks worth even more. His drive to push the ball forward, recover defensively, and win back possession with last-ditch tackles showcases his importance. If there were ever a textbook example of a box-to-box midfielder, it would be Rice. He will certainly keep his place in the team, but it looks as if his future is set as an ‘eight’, giving him that creative freedom.

Martin Odegaard
Odegaard has faced criticism from Arsenal supporters this season, as he hasn't quite been the slick, technical, goal-scoring midfielder he showed in previous campaigns. However, Arsenal without their captain aren't the same team. His influence extends beyond just his passing—he leads the press, pushes the team forward, and carries the bulk of the creative responsibility. Without key attackers around him, his job has been tougher, but his vision and tactical intelligence remain vital. There's no doubt he wants to be the one to lead Arsenal to major trophies.

Alexander Isak to lead Arsenal’s new look attack

Bukayo Saka
How much have Arsenal missed Saka this season? He was on course for something extraordinary with 15 goal contributions in 16 Premier League matches before his injury. There's no doubt he'll slot straight back into the side, and his connection with White and Odegaard will soon restore balance to Arsenal's attack. He's the club's most important player, embodying everything Arsenal stands for—but sooner or later, major honours will be needed to cement his status among the world's best.

Alexander Isak
Isak may well be the most sought-after striker in the summer window. Arsenal have made Isak their top priority, having seen first-hand what they're missing in their league fixture and Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle. Sometimes, you just need a clinical finisher—and Isak has proven time and time again that he can be that player. The No.14 sits on his back in the North East, but that legendary number is gathering dust at Arsenal. If there's one blockbuster signing to take it, it's Isak. Liverpool are also in the mix, so he won't come cheap, but if he lifts the title at the Emirates in 2026, it will all be worth it.

Nico Williams
Williams brings directness, explosiveness, and skill—exactly the kind of wing play that terrifies full-backs and exactly what Arsenal need on the left flank. The Athletic has revealed Arsenal have long-term interest in the winger while Football Insider also revealed that Aston Villa are have shown interest in Williams. At just 22, he offers both quality and potential for growth, making him an ideal addition to Arteta's attack.

Arsenal's forward line is in desperate need of an upgrade if they want to take that next step. The attacking firepower of Isak and Williams could transform the side, while the defensive stability of Guehi would be equally crucial. One thing is certain: the pressure will be on Arteta to deliver.

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