While Arsenal typically dominates possession, Girona’s corner-taking form makes this a strong selection. At home, Girona average an impressive 6.08 corners per game, taking 4+ corners in 12 of 13 home fixtures this season. Their European form mirrors this consistency, averaging 5.71 corners per match and reaching 3+ corners in all but one group-stage game (5, 7, and 11 in their home matches).

Arsenal’s European defensive metrics add further confidence: the Gunners concede an average of 3.43 corners per match in Europe, with 3+ conceded in 5 of 7 matches. With Arsenal’s qualification already secured, their intensity may drop, allowing Girona more attacking opportunities to capitalise on set pieces.

Alejandro Francés is Girona’s second-most foul-prone defender, averaging 1.67 fouls per game. He has committed at least one foul in 7 of his last 8 starts, recording 2+ fouls in four of those. In European matches, his defensive responsibilities often increase, reflected by foul counts of 3, 4, 1, and 4 in his four group-stage starts.

Against Arsenal’s fluid and technically skilled attack, Francés is likely to face significant challenges, particularly on the flanks or when containing central runs. His defensive positioning makes him a strong candidate for at least one foul in this match.

Despite debates surrounding his role in Arsenal’s attack, Kai Havertz has demonstrated consistent offensive involvement. He averages 2.5 shots per game, with 0.92 hitting the target. Havertz has registered at least one shot on target in 13 of his last 14 matches and remains an integral part of Arsenal’s European campaigns, hitting the target in all but one UCL match this season.

With Arsenal’s qualification secure, Havertz may see more freedom to operate in advanced positions, increasing his likelihood of testing the Girona goalkeeper.

Oriol Romeu’s physical style is well-documented, making him a magnet for fouls in midfield battles. Averaging 2.19 fouls per game, Romeu has committed at least two fouls in 6 of his last 9 starts as well as all four of his Champions League starts this season. Tasked with managing Arsenal’s technical midfield trio, Romeu’s combative approach and lack of agility are likely to see him rack up multiple fouls once again.

With Bukayo Saka unavailable, Gabriel Martinelli assumes a key role in Arsenal’s attack. Averaging 1.48 shots per game, Martinelli has hit the target in 3 of his last 4 starts. In European fixtures, his accuracy improves, with shots on target in all but two matches this season. Martinelli’s pace and directness make him a reliable pick to challenge Girona’s defence.

Although Abel Ruiz has seen limited game time, he remains a potent threat when leading the line for Girona. Averaging 1.61 shots per 90 minutes, Ruiz has hit the target in 2 of his last 4 starts, scoring once. His home form is particularly notable, with 12 of his last 14 goals scored on home soil. Against an Arsenal side likely to rotate, Ruiz could find opportunities to test the keeper.

Francés’ shooting metrics are remarkable for a defender, with an average of 1.11 shots per 90 minutes. He has registered at least one shot in each of his last five appearances, with multiple attempts in three of those. In Europe, this rises to 1.3 shots per 90, highlighting his advanced positioning and willingness to contribute in attack. Against Arsenal, his involvement in set pieces and overlapping runs makes him a strong candidate for a shot.

The young Arsenal midfielder’s technical ability and creativity make him a magnet for fouls. Lewis-Skelly leads the Arsenal squad with 3.3 fouls drawn per 90 minutes, having drawn fouls in 10 of his last 11 matches, including 2+ fouls in seven of those. Girona’s right-sided defenders, who have conceded 10 fouls in their last three games, are likely to struggle against Lewis-Skelly’s quick feet and positional intelligence.