English Premier League: Arsenal vs West Ham Preview – February 22, 2025

English Premier League: Arsenal vs West Ham Preview – February 22, 2025


The English Premier League presents a thrilling London derby as Arsenal take on West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on February 22, 2025. Both teams are looking to solidify their positions in the league table, making this a highly competitive encounter. Arsenal, under Mikel Arteta, are pushing for a top-four finish, while West Ham, led by David Moyes, aim to challenge for European spots.

 

Event Details

  • Fixture: Arsenal vs. West Ham United
  • Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
  • Kick-Off Time: 15:00 GMT / 10:00 ET / 16:00 CET
  • Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England
  • Broadcast & Live Stream:
    • UK: Sky Sports, TNT Sports
    • US: NBC Sports, Peacock Premium
    • Worldwide: Available via regional broadcasters and live-streaming platforms

 

Team News

Arsenal

Arsenal will be aiming to maintain their impressive home form as they face a resilient West Ham side. With Arteta's tactical philosophy emphasizing high-pressing and quick transitions, Arsenal will look to dictate play from the midfield.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Gabriel Jesus: Doubtful due to a minor ankle injury.
    • Takehiro Tomiyasu: Recovering from a hamstring strain.
    • Emile Smith Rowe: Expected to return to full fitness.
  • Key Players:
    • Martin ร˜degaard: The creative force in midfield.
    • Bukayo Saka: A constant attacking threat on the right wing.
    • Declan Rice: Faces his former club in a crucial midfield battle.





West Ham United

West Ham have been an unpredictable side this season, capable of strong defensive displays and lethal counter-attacks. Moyes' men will rely on their compact shape and efficiency in front of goal.

  • Injuries/Suspensions:
    • Jarrod Bowen: Could miss out due to a minor knock.
    • Kurt Zouma: Suspended after accumulating yellow cards.
    • Lucas Paquetรก: Returns from a slight muscle issue.
  • Key Players:
    • James Ward-Prowse: Set-piece specialist and midfield engine.
    • Michail Antonio: A powerful presence in attack.
    • Alphonse Areola: Will need to be at his best between the sticks.

 

Possible Lineups

Arsenal (4-3-3):

  • Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale
  • Defenders: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhรฃes, Oleksandr Zinchenko
  • Midfielders: Declan Rice, Martin ร˜degaard, Kai Havertz
  • Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus (or Eddie Nketiah), Gabriel Martinelli

West Ham United (4-2-3-1):

  • Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola
  • Defenders: Vladimir Coufal, Nayef Aguerd, Angelo Ogbonna, Emerson Palmieri
  • Midfielders: James Ward-Prowse, Tomรกลก Souฤek
  • Attacking Midfielders: Saรฏd Benrahma, Lucas Paquetรก, Jarrod Bowen (or Pablo Fornals)
  • Forward: Michail Antonio

 

Playing Ground: Emirates Stadium

The Emirates Stadium, home to Arsenal since 2006, provides an electrifying atmosphere, with a capacity of over 60,000. Arsenal's strong home record will be a major factor in this encounter.

 

Head-to-Head Record

  • Total Matches: 148
  • Arsenal Wins: 72
  • West Ham Wins: 37
  • Draws: 39

Arsenal have historically dominated this fixture, but West Ham have pulled off some notable wins in recent seasons.

 

Match Preview

Arsenal’s Tactical Approach

Arsenal will look to control possession and play through their midfield creators. With Saka and Martinelli providing width, their attack could trouble West Ham’s backline.

West Ham’s Strategy

West Ham will rely on their defensive organization and counter-attacking prowess. Ward-Prowse’s set-piece ability will be crucial, while Antonio’s physicality will pose a threat to Arsenal’s defense.

 

Key Battles

  1. Declan Rice vs. James Ward-Prowse: A battle between midfield enforcers.
  2. Bukayo Saka vs. Emerson Palmieri: Saka’s dribbling skills against an experienced full-back.
  3. William Saliba vs. Michail Antonio: A physical test for Arsenal’s defense.

 

Betting Odds & Predictions

  • Arsenal Win: 4/6
  • West Ham Win: 9/2
  • Draw: 3/1

Arsenal are the favorites at home, but West Ham’s resilience could make for an entertaining contest. A 2-1 victory for Arsenal seems a likely outcome.

 

How to Watch

United Kingdom:

  • Sky Sports Premier League
  • TNT Sports

United States:

  • NBC Sports
  • Peacock Premium

Global:

  • Check regional broadcasters for live streaming and TV options.

 

Conclusion

Arsenal vs. West Ham promises to be an exciting clash at the Emirates Stadium. While Arsenal’s attacking prowess and home advantage make them favorites, West Ham’s counter-attacking style and set-piece strength could make it a challenging fixture. Fans can expect an action-packed London derby on February 22, 2025!