Arsenal vs Everton preview: Saka injury looms as Arteta faces old mentor Moyes

Arsenal host Everton on Saturday as manager Mikel Arteta faces his old mentor David Moyes.

Kickoff at the Emirates Stadium is 10am ET (9am CT) on Saturday, October 24. The game is on USA Network, with a live stream on the network’s website.

Arsenal’s injury concerns

The reigning Premier League champions earned a deserved draw at Bayern Munich on Wednesday, but Bukayo Saka suffered an injury in the game. The England winger, who has started the season well, could be out for weeks if not months.

William Saliba is working his way back to fitness, while Christos Tzolis remains out on the left. Eberechi Eze, who came on for Saka and scored in Munich, will likely start on the left, and Noni Madueke, who scored the winner at Nottingham Forest last weekend, is expected on the right.

Everton’s position

Everton, led by Moyes, are pushing for a European place with a small squad. They lost at home to Chelsea last weekend, their first defeat of the season, and have struggled for creativity at times.

The Toffees favour a settled 4-5-1, with Jack Grealish and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall given freedom to roam. Tyrique George or Brennan Johnson could start wide in a more attacking lineup, or Merlin Rohl could continue on the right for defensive solidity. Striker Thierno Barry has worked hard but missed some chances this season. Everton’s playmakers are creating openings and will look to counter.

Prediction

Expect Arteta’s side to get the job done, but it won’t be easy and they could fall behind but rally late. Arsenal 2-1 Everton.