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The Gunners will take to the pitch without Bukayo Saka, hoping to extend their unbeaten run in the Premier League to eight matches while winning three in a row. Here are predictions, team news, betting tips, and possible line-ups for the game.
Arsenal’s recent return to form has been tempered by the significant blow of Bukayo Saka's hamstring injury in the 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace.
Following a frustrating draw against Everton, the Gunners bounced back with a thrilling 3-2 comeback win over Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup, spearheaded by Gabriel Jesus's hat trick. This momentum carried over to the Premier League, with Jesus netting twice in a resounding 5-1 victory against Palace.
However, Saka's injury, which could sideline him until March, casts a significant shadow over the team's immediate future.
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Arsenal now face a crucial period without their star boy, hosting Ipswich Town on Boxing Day, while their title rivals are all in action. A potential nine-point gap to league leaders Liverpool could loom large as they kick off their fixture.
Ipswich, returning to the top flight after a 22-year absence, have struggled to find their footing. Despite two victories under manager Kieran McKenna, they remain in the relegation zone, just two points above the drop zone heading into the Boxing Day fixtures.
Arsenal vs. Ipswich Town Head to Head
The Gunners boast a formidable historical record against Ipswich Town in the Premier League. They remain undefeated in their last 13 league encounters, a streak dating back to a 2-1 loss at Portman Road in September 1984.
Arsenal's dominance at home against Ipswich is particularly striking. Their solitary previous meeting at the Emirates Stadium was a League Cup semi-final second leg in January 2011, which Arsenal comfortably won 3-0. This victory secured a 3-1 aggregate win for the Gunners.
Ipswich's last league victory away to Arsenal occurred in August 1979 at Highbury.
Arsenal vs. Ipswich Town Team News and Possible Lineups
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Arsenal's injury woes have deepened with the news that both Saka and Raheem Sterling are facing extended absences.
Saka, who suffered a hamstring tear, is feared to be out until March, while Sterling is sidelined for several weeks with a knee injury sustained in training.
Oleksandr Zinchenko could make his return this week after missing the start of the month. However, Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu remain sidelined with long-term injuries.
For Ipswich Town, captain Sam Morsy will be unavailable due to suspension. He picked up his fifth yellow card of the season in their recent defeat to Newcastle. However, top scorer Liam Delap will return from his own one-match ban.
Massimo Luongo has been battling illness, while Axel Tuanzebe, Chiedozie Ogbene, and George Hirst remain unavailable.
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Arsenal Predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Raya (GK); Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Odegaard, Partey, Rice; Jesus, Havertz, Martinelli
Ipswich Town Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Muric (GK); Johnson, O'Shea, Greaves, Davis; Cajuste, Phillips; Hutchinson, Szmodics, Clarke; Delap
Arsenal vs. Ipswich Town Predictions & Betting Tips
Despite Saka’s injury, the Gunners still have enough ammunition to win comfortably at home against a team like Ipswich.
Arsenal to win
Arsenal to score over 2.5 goals
Arsenal over 5.5 corners
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