Arsenal shake-up at the Emirates as Gabriel and Timber return while Rice sits out

Arsenal's lineup and build-up

Spanish coach Mikel Arteta named Arsenal's starting XI to face Aston Villa at the Emirates in a Premier League clash that opens the round-19 schedule.

Arsenal welcomed back their center-back duo Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba, while Mikel Merino started in midfield to cover the injured Declan Rice, who misses through injury.

In attack, the front three featured Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Victor Giocires.

Aston Villa's approach and match context

Aston Villa lined up around Ollie Watkins, with Morgan Rogers, Emiliano Buendía, and others providing support.

Here are the teams as listed in the official match sheet.

Arsenal: Raya - Timber - Saliba - Gabriel - Hinikabi - Zubimendi - Merino - Odegaard - Trossard - Saka - Giocires.

Aston Villa: Martinez - Buendía - Konsa - Lindelof - Din - Onana - Tielemans - Sancho - Rogers - Buendía - Watkins.

Arsenal sit top of the table on 42 points, while Villa are third on 39.

A welcome boost for Arsenal, if only the sun cooperates.

Punchline: Arsenal's plan is so sharp, even the defense blinks.