With the year coming to an end, Arsenal will be looking for that sparkle as they play host to Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium. The match is scheduled for 29 December, with kickoff at 17:00 GMT.
Arsenal have under a rough start to the Premier League this season. This has seen the team take on three managerial changes. Despite a formidable team especially with the summer transfer, things have not yet clicked for the Gunners.
The arrival of Mikle Arteta from Manchester City is forecasted as the light at the end of the tunnel for the 3 times FA Cup winners. Despite lacking managerial experience, Mikel Arteta has been quick to place his stand in the team with the training sessions.
On the other hand, the Blues are experience a fall from grace with a number of unconvicing performances following the loss to Manchester City. It has been a downward spiral with the team only managing to secure 2 wins in their past 6 matches.
Coach Frank Lampard is keen to make the most out of the January transfer window following their ban. Lampard is keen on reinforcing his squad depth with a number of high profile players marking his sheet.
Arsenal vs. Chelsea Head to Head
Both teams have played 40 games together, with Chelsea picking up 20 wins while Arsenal managing only 11 wins. Here is a look at their past encounters:
Arsenal 2-0 Chelsea
Chelsea 3-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 2-2 Chelsea
Chelsea 0-0 Arsenal
Chelsea 3-1 Arsenal
Arsenal 3-0 Chelsea
Arsenal 0-1 Chelsea
Chelsea 2-0 Arsenal
Arsenal Team News
Brazilian wonder kid Gabriel Martinelli is still being assessed after picking up a tight left hamstring during their clash with Everton. Right back Bellerin and midfielder Ceballos both returned to full training after picking up hamstring injuries.
Defender Chambers will not feature after bing suspended for picking up 5 yellow cards. Left back Tierney is still out after picking a shoulder injury. Young ster Bukayo Saka is the main contender to fill this void.
Chelsea Team News
Midfielder Kovacic will be serving a yellow card suspension ahead of the clash. After making his first return from injury, defender Rudiger is set to feature despite the racist chants during their clash against Totenham.
Midfielder Ruben Loftus Cheek who was keen on a return after recovering from a tendon Achilles rapture will remain on the sidelines. Pedro has been struggling for game time especially with the arrival of American Pulisic.
Prediction and Odds
Both teams are struggling in their form, but Arsenal are far off worse compared to the Blues. We expect a calm and lackluster battle between the two sides.
Chelsea win
Draw
Double Chance
Goals Under 2.5