The Premier League returns this Saturday as Arsenal hosts Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium in a clash that promises excitement and drama. Both teams have plenty to play for, after an impressive start to the season, Forest find themselves in fifth place and will want to continue this fine run of form to solidify their position in the top half of the table. On the other hand, the Gunners have had a huge dip in form with zero wins in their last five games in all competitions and will feel as if they have a point to prove to still be considered as ‘title contenders’.
Arsenal do have a huge advantage going into the game as the hosts. The Emirates has become a fortress for Arsenal, this season they’ve lost only once at home, scoring an average of 2.5 goals per game. Their defensive ability has also not gone unnoticed, with just 0.75 goals conceded on average in home matches. Whereas, Nottingham Forest has struggled away from home, picking up just one win in their last six away matches. They’ve conceded an average of 2 goals per game on the road, a statistic that might haunt them against an in-form Arsenal attack.
Former Arsenal marksman Ian Wright said, “We need to get back on track. I think we beat them 2-1 or 2-0,”. With the historic head-to-head record between the two teams Arsenal are clear favorites, in their last five meetings, Arsenal has won four times, including a dominant 5-0 victory at the Emirates last season. Nottingham Forest, however, famously knocked Arsenal out of the FA Cup in 2022, reminding everyone that they can cause an upset on their day.
Another huge blow for Forrest with possible injuries to key players Chris Wood and Danilo which would be a huge blow. Arsenal also is suffering injury woes with question marks over Martinelli’s and Calafori’s match fitness. Without a doubt it will be a very competitive game that could go either way, but Arsenal goes into the game as clear favorites.