Girona vs Arsenal: Preview, Predictions, Lineups, and Where to Watch

Girona vs Arsenal: Preview, Predictions,


The highly anticipated Girona vs Arsenal clash in the UEFA Champions League is set to unfold on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Taking place at the Estadi Municipal de Montilivi, this final league-phase battle promises to be a defining moment for Arsenal as they aim to secure their advancement into the knockout stages. Here’s everything you need to know, including preview, team lineups, schedule, injuries, and broadcast details.

Match Preview

Arsenal are in excellent form in this season’s UEFA Champions League, sitting third in the league-phase standings following dominant home wins. They enter the Girona vs Arsenal fixture needing just a point to cement their spot in the competition’s top eight. With key domestic games on the horizon, Mikel Arteta’s men are expected to rotate their squad, yet will aim for a professional performance in Spain. Girona, after a commendable debut season in the Champions League, are unfortunately out of the competition, having struggled for points and goals throughout the campaign.

Predicted Lineups

Despite their extensive squad depth, Arsenal are dealing with significant injuries. Meanwhile, Girona’s issues lie primarily with suspensions and setbacks to crucial players. Below are the predicted lineups for both teams as they approach this important encounter:

Girona Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):

  • Goalkeeper: Pau Lopez
  • Defenders: Arnau Martinez, David Lopez, Juanpe, Alejandro Frances
  • Midfielders: Aleix Garcia, Angel Herrera
  • Forwards: Tsygankov, Donny van de Beek, Arnaut Danjuma, Abel Ruiz

Arsenal Predicted Lineup (4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: David Raya
  • Defenders: Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, Myles Lewis-Skelly
  • Midfielders: Martin Odegaard, Jorginho, Declan Rice
  • Forwards: Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard

Key Injury Updates

Arsenal’s long-term absentees include Bukayo Saka (hamstring) and Gabriel Jesus (ACL), with the latter likely out for the remainder of the season. Captain Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino are also doubts, but Odegaard participated in training and could return to the squad. Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain sidelined due to knee injuries.

On the Girona side, Daley Blind is doubtful following a knock suffered in La Liga action, while starting goalkeeper Gazzaniga could miss out with a back issue. Midfielder Bryan Gil is suspended due to yellow-card accumulation, adding to the Catalan side's challenges.

Schedule and Round Details

The Girona vs Arsenal match is part of the final round of the Champions League’s extended league phase, determining which teams move forward to the knockout stages. The game will kick off at:

  • 8:00 PM GMT (UK)
  • 3:00 PM EST (US)
  • 12:30 AM IST (India)

Broadcast Information and Where to Watch

Fans eager to catch the action live can tune in via the following platforms:

UK:

  • TV Channel: TNT Sports 4
  • Streaming Service: Discovery+

US:

  • Streaming Service: Paramount+

India:

  • Streaming Services: Sony LIV, JioTV

With access available across different regions, fans around the globe can enjoy this thrilling clash.

Predictions

Arsenal are the clear favorites to dominate this encounter. Girona’s inability to score in key matches, combined with their depleted squad due to injuries and suspensions, presents a significant disadvantage. On the other hand, Arsenal’s tactical depth and superior squad quality should ensure a comfortable win, even with rotation. The predicted scoreline for the match is Girona 0-2 Arsenal.

Why This Match Matters

This will be the first-ever meeting between the two clubs, making the Girona vs Arsenal match an inaugural showdown with high stakes primarily on the Gunners’ side. Securing their spot in the top eight is not only crucial for qualification but also for maintaining momentum as they prepare for tougher fixtures in both the Champions League and the Premier League.

Final Thoughts

The Girona vs Arsenal match is shaping up to be an exciting affair, especially as Arsenal aim to balance squad rotation with securing a vital result. For Girona, it’s an opportunity to compete valiantly in their final Champions League outing this season. Regardless of the outcome, fans are in for a treat as these two sides battle it out at Estadi Municipal de Montilivi.


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