Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the Premier League match.
Bournemouth are facing mounting injury concerns, with more players recently joining the list, and this could impact the outcome of the upcoming match.
Bournemouth
The team from the south of England have failed to score in three of their last four outings. Leicester City's defence proved as impenetrable as Chelsea's and Liverpool's. Bournemouth can only blame themselves for their loss to the Premier League newcomers, as they dominated possession, especially in the second half: 19-6 in shots during the match and 12-1 after the break. The expected goals suggested the score should have been 2:1, not 0:1 (2.16-0.79). They nearly wasted it all, managing to test the keeper with just two shots out of 19. They couldn't breach Mads Hermansen. How do they plan to overcome Arsenal, who concede less than a goal per game thanks to David Raya's brilliant performance?
Arsenal
Arsenal's goalkeeper is fit, but the participation of several key players remains doubtful. Bukayo Saka was injured in the match against Greece, Kai Havertz didn't feature for Germany, and Gabriel Martinelli lasted only five minutes against Chile. Let's not forget Martin Ødegaard's injuries. The return of the first three is anticipated on Saturday, but what if they don't play? At least Mikel Merino is fit again. There are also defensive concerns: Jurrien Timber and Oleksandr Zinchenko have injuries.
Bournemouth vs Arsenal Prediction
The last five encounters have all ended in favour of Arsenal, with three of them being decisive wins. Arsenal are undoubtedly stronger, but even if most of their key players can take to the field, what condition will they be in? Bournemouth might have a chance to make a mark, though it remains risky. A safer bet is both teams to score: Arsenal scored in 9 of their last 10 matches, while Bournemouth did the same in 9 of their last 10 home games.
