The Premier League resumes on Saturday with an exciting match as Arsenal visits Bournemouth, marking the return of league action after the international break. Last season, Mikel Arteta’s team dominated Bournemouth with a 7-0 aggregate score, but expectations are different this time. Bournemouth is no longer just another midtable side; their point total over the past year is more comparable to that of Tottenham, Manchester United, and Newcastle.
Arteta has warned his players to prepare for a “big challenge” against a team that is “very well coached, super intense, really competitive, and has a clear idea of how they want to play.” Although Arsenal is favored to win, this trip to the south coast could be more challenging than anticipated. Here’s what you need to know about the match:
Viewing Information
Date: Saturday, October 19 | Time: 12:30 p.m. ET
Location: Dean Court, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
TV: NBC | Live Stream: Fubo (free trial available)
Odds: Bournemouth +400; Draw +300; Arsenal -150
Team News
Bournemouth: Tyler Adams may play his first match since June, as coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed a fully fit squad. The US men’s national team player will likely ease back into action after limited minutes since joining from Leeds in August. Milos Kerkez may also step in at left back to help defend against dangerous winger Bukayo Saka, assuming he is fit to start.
Possible Bournemouth XI: Kepa; Araujo, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez; Christie, Cook; Semenyo, Tavernier, Outtara; Evanilson
Arsenal: Arteta faces several injury concerns. Martin Odegaard is recovering well and should return before the next international break, but Takehiro Tomiyasu is sidelined due to a setback. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli both encountered issues during international duty, while Jurrien Timber, Kai Havertz, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Thomas Partey have also missed action. Saka and Timber are expected to play, while Martinelli and Havertz are considered doubtful. Partey will be fit, adding depth to the squad ahead of the upcoming match against Liverpool.
Possible Arsenal XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Partey, Rice; Saka, Havertz, Trossard, Martinelli
Prediction
Arsenal might not find it easy, but their quality should allow them to secure a hard-fought victory. Prediction: Bournemouth 1, Arsenal 2.