Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest: Premier League Clash as Gunners Seek to Revive Title Bid

Arsenal is set to host Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium in a crucial Premier League match today, Saturday, November 23, 2024. The Gunners are eager to kick-start their title bid after a frustrating season so far, sitting nine points behind early leaders Liverpool.

Arsenal has not secured a league victory since early October and are currently on a four-game winless streak in the top flight, including a 1-1 draw with Chelsea before the international break. This match is pivotal for Mikel Arteta’s side, as any further dropped points could significantly harm their title aspirations.

Nottingham Forest, managed by Nuno Espirito Santo, have impressed this season, particularly with their unbeaten record on the road. Only Liverpool have accumulated more away points than Forest, although they did suffer a loss to Newcastle before the international break. Forest are level on points with Arsenal and just one spot behind them on goal difference.

The match is scheduled for a 3pm GMT kick-off at the Emirates Stadium. However, it will not be shown live in the UK due to the 3pm blackout imposed across English football on Saturdays. Fans can follow live coverage through dedicated match blogs and catch highlights on Match of the Day at 10:30pm on BBC One.

In terms of team news, Arsenal welcome back key players such as Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard, who have all been back in training. Riccardo Calafiori and Leandro Trossard are also set to return, although Ben White faces an extended period out due to knee surgery. Kieran Tierney and Takehiro Tomiyasu are also sidelined.

Nottingham Forest have Danilo and Ibrahim Sangare as their only confirmed injury absentees, but several players will need to be assessed after the international break. Ola Aina is expected to be fit despite returning early from international duty with Nigeria).

Predictions suggest a closely contested match, with some analysts forecasting a draw given Arsenal’s home form and Forest’s impressive away record. The odds favor Arsenal to win, but Forest’s resilience on the road makes them a formidable opponent).