Arsenal host Nottingham Forest at the Emirates this Saturday in Premier League Gameweek 4. The big story isn’t just the result, it’s the manager: Ange Postecoglou is back in the EPL, leading Forest for the first time, and he’ll want to make a mark immediately.
What We Know So Far
- Forest have a new boss: Postecoglou replaced Nuno Espirito Santo during the international break. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta has praised his style, saying Forest already show his “fingerprints” in how they want to play. Reuters+2SI+2
- Key injury blow for Forest: Ola Aina, Forest’s left-back, is out for at least three months with a hamstring injury picked up on international duty. Talksport
- Arsenal’s missing men: Bukayo Saka will miss the match due to a hamstring injury; William Saliba also doubtful after his ankle issue. Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus still out. On the plus side, Christian Nørgaard is back in training. Arsenal+3Reuters+3ESPN.com+3
Match Stats & Trends to Watch
- Head-to-head: Arsenal have won three of the last five league matches against Forest; Forest won one, and one was a draw. The Gunners have dominated recent home games. Squawka+2SI+2
- Probabilities & predictions: Arsenal are clear favourites, with bookies giving them around a 66-70% chance to win. Opta Analyst+1
- Scoring trends: Over 2.5 goals looks likely — recent matches between these sides and overall form suggest both attack and counter are parts of the plan. Forest under Postecoglou may try to press more than under his predecessor. Squawka+2SI+2
What Postecoglou Brings & What Arsenal Must Do
- Postecoglou is known for intense pressing, attacking full-backs, and quick transitions. With Saka missing, Arsenal’s disruption will be in their forward areas. Eze or Madueke may get more responsibility to run the flanks. The Standard+2SI+2
- Forest will need to compensate for Aina’s absence on the left; his replacement will be under pressure, especially defending crosses and managing Arsenal’s quick wide attacks. Talksport+1
- Arsenal’s defensive depth will be tested too. Saliba being doubtful means Mosquera or others must step up. Keeping a clean sheet will depend on concentration, especially early. The Standard+2Squawka+2
Prediction
I think Arsenal will edge this one. They should dominate possession, create more chances, especially from wide areas and set-pieces. But Forest under Ange might surprise with energy and pressing. I’m going Arsenal 2-0 Nottingham Forest.
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