Arsenal vs Chelsea: Match prediction, team news and possible lineups

League leaders Arsenal welcome Chelsea to the Emirates on Sunday, March 1, 2026, looking to tighten their grip at the top of the Premier League table in what promises to be a tense London derby.

Mikel Arteta’s side head into the contest buoyed by a commanding 4-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur.

At home, the Gunners have rediscovered their edge. Four straight league wins at the Emirates, three clean sheets and a steady stream of goals have rebuilt confidence after January’s setback against Manchester United. With the title race entering a decisive phase, every point now carries extra weight.

Chelsea arrive unbeaten in the league under Liam Rosenior, but their momentum has slowed slightly. Back-to-back home draws, including a frustrating 1-1 result against Burnley, have exposed a vulnerability when defending narrow leads.

Despite that, their away form has been impressive, and they have shown tactical discipline in difficult fixtures.

Team news

Much of the focus this week has centred on Bukayo Saka. The winger appeared to twist his ankle late against Spurs, sparking concern among supporters.

However, early assessments suggest the injury is not serious, and he is expected to be available for selection. Arteta is unlikely to take unnecessary risks, but Saka’s importance in wide areas makes him difficult to leave out in a fixture of this magnitude.

Kai Havertz is pushing to return after training with the squad. The German’s availability would give Arsenal another option between the lines or as a false nine, though match sharpness could determine whether he starts or features from the bench.

Ben White remains in doubt due to a knock and will face a late fitness test. Should he miss out, Jurrien Timber is expected to continue at right-back. Captain Martin Odegaard, who was eased back into action last weekend after a minor knee issue, is fully fit and in contention to start.

Defensively, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes are set to anchor the back line, while David Raya keeps his place in goal. Midfield duties should again fall to Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, offering balance and control.

Chelsea travels across London with several enforced changes. Wesley Fofana is suspended after his dismissal against Burnley, meaning Tosin Adarabioyo is poised to partner Trevoh Chalobah in central defence. Reece James and Malo Gusto provide width from full-back positions.

Injuries continue to disrupt Liam Rosenior’s plans. Marc Cucurella and Estevao Willian are sidelined with thigh problems, while Levi Colwill is out with a knee issue. Jamie Bynoe-Gittens is also unavailable, and Mykhaylo Mudryk remains suspended.

Midfield responsibility will likely rest with Moises Caicedo and Andrey Santos, with Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez supporting Pedro in attack.

Possible lineups and prediction

Arsenal: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie; Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Eze, Trossard; Gyokeres

Chelsea: Sánchez; James, Adarabioyo, Chalobah, Gusto; Caicedo, Santos; Palmer, Fernández, Neto; Pedro

Arsenal’s home form and attacking rhythm make them slight favourites, but Chelsea’s organisation under Rosenior cannot be ignored. Expect intensity, physical battles in midfield and moments of quality at both ends.

Prediction: Arsenal 1-1 Chelsea.

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