What lineup might Arsenal choose against Bournemouth if Bukayo Saka's worst nightmares come true

With Arsenal star Bukayo Saka becoming the latest to suffer an injury, Mikel Arteta, if he didn't previously detest international breaks, will now.

Saka was replaced during England's crushing loss to Greece at Wembley Stadium because to what appeared to be a hamstring injury.

Given that Martin Odegaard hobbled off during the September internationals while playing for Norway and hasn't returned from his ankle injury, it's another unfortunate injury setback for the Gunners.

Additionally, Arteta may have some selection headaches due to Arsenal's hefty schedule, which includes a trip to Bournemouth right after the international break.

Arsenal starting lineup vs Bournemouth without Bukayo Saka

David Raya, goalie

If star goalie David Raya takes a hit of any type, things could really start to go Arteta's way.

However, Raya has been one of Arsenal's best players thus far this season, so for the time being the Spanish custodian is healthy and productive.

White, Saliba, Gabriel, and Timber in defence

William Saliba and Gabriel, Arsenal's ever-present centre back duo, have established themselves as one of the league's strongest tandems.

They will definitely play Bournemouth, and if the Dutch defender shows up healthy after missing the international break, Jurrien Timber should also be able to keep his place in the back four.

After missing the previous four games due to injury, Ben White is anticipated to be in the mix. Having had an extra two weeks to recuperate, the Englishman should be ready to play again.

Rice, Merino, and Nwaneri in midfield

Given that Thomas Partey is also dealing with a knock and Odegaard is still not back to training, Arteta's situation becomes more difficult in the midfield.

At the centre of Arsenal's midfield three is undoubtedly Declan Rice, with Spanish international Mikel Merino a possible partner for the Englishman.

Prior to the international break, Merino made his North Londoners debut, and in Partey's possible absence, he would assist balance out Rice's defensive burden.

Ethan Nwaneri may get a chance to start in his first Premier League game because Arsenal may struggle with creativity up the pitch as well as in midfield.

Attacking: Havertz, Martinelli, and Sterling

If Saka and Kai Havertz are unable to play for Arsenal against Bournemouth the next weekend, it could be problematic for the team given they have a combined record of 14 G/A in the Premier League this season.

Havertz may have been left off of Germany's roster for the October break, but when the capital club travels south, he should be healthy and ready to play.

Regarding the void left by Saka, Arteta can choose between summer acquisition Raheem Sterling and the dependable Leonardo Trossard.

The most like-for-like replacement seems to be Sterling, while Gabriel Martinelli is aiming to keep up his recent scoring success off the left.