Paul Merson has a ‘strong feeling’ Arsenal star who Man City couldn’t cope with last season will start despite Declan Rice return

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Arsenal are facing a dilemma in midfield ahead of their huge clash with Manchester City, and Mikel Arteta has a decision to make.

Captain Martin Odegaard is injured, as is summer signing Mikel Merino, and there are limited options to pick from.

Kai Havertz dropped into midfield in Arsenal’s draw against Atalanta, but he did not have the same impact he otherwise brings as a striker, whilst Thomas Partey was particularly disappointing as he gave a penalty away.

Mikel Arteta will be boosted by the return of Declan Rice, who missed the North London derby with a suspension, but it is still unclear who he will select in midfield.

Arsenal icon Paul Merson has now called for Arteta to select Jorginho, given what he has done against Man City in the past.

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Paul Merson calls for Jorginho to start in Arsenal trip to Man City

Merson has now told Sportskeeda that even with Rice returning, Jorginho will be the key to success for Arsenal against City, and his performance against Pep Guardiola’s side last season shows why.

“I have a strong feeling Jorginho will play this game despite Declan Rice returning from his suspension,” Merson stated.

“With Kai Havertz in midfield the other day, it really helped both Thomas Partey and Jorginho. One thing Jorginho does really well is, he keeps the ball.

“During the 1-0 win at Emirates last season, City could not touch him, he was just too good. It’s a real headache for Arteta now. He must decide whether he should play Jorginho or not.”

Jorginho must replace Thomas Partey against Manchester City

There is no question that Rice should come back into the starting lineup, but Jorginho should also be on the teamsheet at the Etihad Stadium.

Jorginho has been a reliable performer in big games, and a slower, tactical chess game against Man CIty is the type of match in which he thrives.

The Italian was outstanding against City when brought in for his first start at the Emirates last season, with his intelligence on the ball proving invaluable.

Partey’s poor display at Atalanta nearly cost Arsenal dearly, and there is no room for error against such top opposition at Man City.