Saturday 17 January 2026 City Ground USA TV: NBC/Peacock 12:30 pm ET And we go again, and again, and again... every 3 days or so. Feel tiring to you? Imagine how the squad feels! So back to the league, which IMHO is the most important competition we’re in, and perhaps the one we have the best chance at?? Short opening post from me this time (just a bit too much shit going on in my life ATM), so simply... COYG!!!!
My kingdom for a win. Clean sheet is gravy. Man Utd could get something out of their derby. I still think we can get a 8 point lead going into February. Either Man Utd or Spurs I think will take points off them. Both are away. Anyway, it won't be an easy game, I truly think there are no more 'easy' games in the league. I do think we are in a mode right now that is machine like. I expect changes. I wouldn't be surprised if Rice is rested for Inter away and Merlino starts. Noni starting maybe even Eze. The left back position is worrisome, how close is Calafiori?
Our 3rd of 4 straight away matches across all four competitions, this one is arguably the most important to win of the 4. While Forest are dwelling near the bottom of the table, I think we all know how strong the league is and that no opponent can be taken lightly, especially on the road. An early goal would go a long way towards making our afternoon / evening go smoothly. We should be fielding another strong back four with Raya back in goal. Having rested Rice and Zubimendi vs. Portsmouth, I expect to see the same midfield that started at Stamford Bridge. Not sure I care too much who our front 3 are, we have enough fire power there to take all 3 points from Forest.
Against a Dyche-coached Forest, we'll enjoy the majority of possession in their end. Arteta won't do it, but I'd start Merino up top for his heading ability. We should get quite a few set piece opportunities.
Saka will continue to feast on forest 3-0 Arsenal A side tid bit Sean dyche teams have never scored more than one goal against us
As you were XI except for 2: Raya back in of course. Noni in for Saka surprises me. Hopefully it’s just tactical/rotation/rest. And the fact that Martinelli keeps his place over Leo was also just slightly surprising, but then again given what he did the last match, maybe not. as long as these last 2 decisions weren’t injury/fitness induced, it’s all good with me!
Fair enough but Madueke seeing a double team and thinking “challenge accepted” instead of passing it is nuts. And he does that every single time.