Overview
Bolton Wanderers used to be a familiar team in the Premier League in the past. However, this club is currently struggling in League One, the third tier of English football. They have not been in good form recently, with only 7 points after 6 matches, scoring 7 goals and conceding 11.
With such form, it will be difficult for Bolton to create a surprise against a powerful Arsenal in the third round of the Carabao Cup. Despite a series of injuries, The Gunners are still superior to their opponents in every aspect. Since the beginning of the 2024-2025 season, coach Mikel Arteta's team has also maintained an unbeaten record in all competitions.
Against a not-so-strong opponent like Bolton, Arteta will certainly rotate the squad to keep the key players fit. Substitutes like Neto, Kiwior, Jordinho, Nwaneri and Sterling will be given the opportunity to play.
Arteta may prioritise other competitions but it is difficult for the Gunners to lose at home to a League One side, no matter what line-up they field.
In the 119 previous meetings between the two teams, Arsenal have the upper hand with 53 wins, 33 draws and 33 losses. The most recent meeting between the two teams was in the League Cup in 2011, with the Gunners winning 2-0.
Human resources situation
As mentioned above, Arsenal are likely to field a number of substitutes from the start. Neto could also be given a chance to start, while Gabriel Jesus will start up front.
On the other side of the front line, Bolton are likely to stick with the same lineup that won last weekend, with Victor Adeboyejo and Dion Charles leading the attack. Josh Sheehan could feature in midfield, while Ricardo plays in defence.
Expected lineup:
Arsenal: Neto, White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Kelly, Jorginho, Rice, Nwaneri, Sterling, Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus.
Bolton Wanderers: Baxter, Johnston, Ricardo, Toal, Schon, Thomason, Sheehan, Matete, Dacres-Cogley, Charles, Adeboyejo.
The match between Arsenal and Bolton takes place at 1:45 am on September 26 (Vietnam time).
