Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest Predictions

• Arsenal conceded in seven of their eight games without Saliba last season
• The Gunners conceded in 12 of their 19 home league games in 2024/25
• Forest lost four of their visits to last season’s top six
• Gyokeres scored 37 goals in 32 home league games for Sporting

Injuries are piling up for Arsenal

Arsenal’s new-season optimism has faded fast, despite the club winning two of their first three games this season. The Gunners are facing familiar issues, with a dour display at Anfield resulting in a 1-0 loss to Liverpool ahead of the international break.

Mikel Arteta’s conservative approach has come in for criticism, while the Spaniard is dealing with another injury crisis just weeks into the new campaign.

William Saliba came off injured against Liverpool, leaving the Gunners with six absentees for Saturday afternoon’s return to action. It’s hard to overstate the Frenchman’s importance to Arsenal, while his absence could force Arteta into taking the handbrake off.

Saliba’s absence leaves Gunners vulnerable

William Saliba missed only eight games for Arsenal last season, but the Gunners struggled defensively without him. They conceded in seven of those eight matches, letting in 11 goals in total.

Despite their strength at the back, Arsenal conceded in 12 of their 19 home matches last term, so there should be chances for Nottingham Forest with Saliba missing this weekend.

The visitors’ wide options should stretch Arsenal and cause them problems, while Chris Wood will be a handful for either Piero Hincapie or Cristhian Mosquera.

Forest to fall short

While there are issues for Arsenal, their attacking options should ensure they can finally start turning draws into victories. Their midfield depth is impressive, while Viktor Gyokeres can make the difference for them.

The Swedish forward scored twice against Leeds in his home debut in the Premier League, while he has consistently thrived in front of home support throughout his career. He scored 37 times in 32 home games for Sporting in the Primeira Liga, while he netted 22 goals in 46 home starts for Coventry.

Forest lost four of their six visits to the top six last season, and they head to the Emirates having recently parted ways with Nuno Espirito Santo. Replacement Ange Postecoglou has had limited time to get to grips with his new squad, and he could begin life at Nottingham Forest with defeat.