Arsenal v Hull City Preview: Team News, Predicted XI and Score Prediction

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Arsenal return to the Emirates this afternoon looking to strengthen their grip on the Premier League summit before the final international break of 2026.Following three consecutive away fixtures, Mikel Arteta’s side will welcome the opportunity to play in front of their own supporters, particularly with Manchester City not in action until later this evening.Another victory would temporarily extend Arsenal’s advantage over City to six points, adding further pressure to their closest title rivals.The Gunners have demonstrated their ability to grind out results, particularly during their historic 1-0 victory at Anfield, but today’s challenge is rather different.Hull City arrive as newly promoted underdogs, and Arsenal will be expected to dominate possession and create opportunities against a side likely to defend in numbers.However, complacency must be avoided.The Tigers have struggled for consistency since their promising start to the campaign, going seven league matches without a victory. Yet their ability to frustrate opponents and threaten on the counterattack means Arsenal cannot afford to switch off.As per Arsenal’s official match preview, the Gunners have won 28 of their last 30 Premier League encounters with newly promoted teams, an impressive record they’ll be determined to extend.Arsenal Team News Ahead of Hull CityWilliam Saliba is approaching his long-awaited return after being named among the substitutes against Slavia Prague.His availability presents Arteta with a welcome selection dilemma, although Ezri Konsa’s impressive performances alongside Gabriel suggest there is little reason to rush the Frenchman.We’ve previously covered Arteta’s delight at welcoming Saliba back into the squad, and his recovery significantly strengthens Arsenal’s defensive options.Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with a thigh injury, while Max Dowman serves the second match of his three-game domestic suspension.Konsa is available despite his midweek knee concern, while Odegaard, Havertz, Tzolis, Timber, Calafiori and Guimaraes are among those who could return to the starting eleven.Hull will be without the suspended Matt Crooks, alongside several injured players.(Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)Predicted Arsenal Lineup and Score PredictionArteta rotated his squad in Prague, and I expect several familiar faces to return this afternoon.With Saliba only recently back in contention, I’d retain this season’s established defensive partnership and I think Arteta will bring Havertz back into the attack.Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3):Raya; Timber, Konsa, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Guimaraes, Odegaard; Madueke, Havertz, Tzolis.Hull may prove stubborn opponents, but Arsenal’s attacking quality and defensive organisation should ultimately prove too strong.Score prediction: Arsenal 3-0 Hull City.Can Arsenal secure another convincing victory and put the pressure firmly back on Manchester City before the international break? Join the conversation in the comments below._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…The post Arsenal v Hull City Preview: Team News, Predicted XI and Score Prediction appeared first on Just Arsenal News.