Premier League

Fulham vs Arsenal prediction

HINT: Arsenal ODDS: 1.72 12 SEP @ 12:30

Newcomers Fulham host the first game of the 2020-21 Premier League season as they welcome Arsenal to Craven Cottage in a London derby.

Mikel Arteta has made an impressive start as Arsenal boss since taking charge in December, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield. Although the Gunners are in a bit of a rebuilding process, I wouldn’t rule them out of a top 4 finish this campaign.

The Spaniard has set out to repair the Gunners’ defence this summer after being leaky for the past few. Cedric Soares and Pablo Mari have both been signed on permanent deals after initially joining on loan in January. Gabriel Magalhaes has been their biggest summer signing to date, arriving from Lyon for £23 million. William Saliba has also returned from his season-long loan at St Etienne.

Winger Willian joined on a free transfer from Chelsea and the Brazilian will also help the defence as he works hard off the ball getting back and going forward for 90 minutes. The 32-year-old scored nine goals and recorded seven assists in 29 Premier League starts for the Blues last season, so he’s an effective weapon in attack.

Alexandre Lacazette has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium this summer, so Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang could be moved into the central striker role. The Gabon attacker scored 22 Premier League goals last season, mostly starting out on the left of an attack three.

Fulham have been busy in the transfer window too. Goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has been loaned in from Paris Saint-Germain, Mario Lemina from Southampton and Ola Aina from Torino. Anthony Knockaert has joined in a £10 million deal from Brighton & Hove Albion, whilst they also have Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa having spent last season on loan at Villarreal.

However, I think Arsenal will be too good for Scott Parker’s side based on their performances under Arteta to date and simply the first team’s performance versus Liverpool two weeks ago. The Cottagers themselves are expected to be among the relegation contenders this season.

Best bet: Arsenal to win is 1.72 with Bet365