The English Premier League, EPL, is one of the most popular leagues in the world. Arsenal and Crystal Palace are set to play in the opening match of the new EPL season (2022-2023) tomorrow. Last season, Arsenal missed the top four places just for two points. They ended the previous season in five. Besides, Crystal Palace were in 12th when the season ended. Now, the Eagles are ready to jump into the new campaign, facing Arsenal at their home.
Records & Stats
Arsenal will visit Selhurst Park Stadium to play the opening match on Friday night. Comparing their previous records with the Gunners, however, Crystal Palace cannot compete with them. Crystal Palace played 26 matches against the Gunners in the English Premier League, where Arsenal won most games.
Arsenal won 14 times when they faced the Eagles in the Premier League, while Crystal Palace won only four games. The remaining seven games have been drawn between the two teams. In addition, Arsenal scored 48 goals in these matches, while Palace netted 29 goals. But Crytal Palace have been dominating in recent times. They lost only one of their previous eight meetings against Arsenal in the EPL. Moreover, Arsenal’s records in playing the opening match are not good enough. The Gunners lost five of their previous nine opening games.
Team News
Arsenal could feature their new signing tomorrow. Gabriel Jesus, who scored seven goals in the pre-season for Arsenal, is likely to play from the beginning of the match. The manager can also play Zinchenko in the starting line-up. But Smith Rowe will not be a part of Arsenal’s squad as he is injured.
The home team also has several injury issues. James McArthur and Michael Olise will likely miss tomorrow’s clash due to groin and ankle injuries.
Arteta’s Thoughts
Arsenal boss Mike Arteta had a press conference yesterday. He has shared his thoughts with the media. He said,
I think we are all enthusiastic. We had the pre-season that we wanted, it was well organised, we had good results, good performances, good preparation, but now the ball starts to roll to tomorrow evening in a completely different context against a Premier League team and we know what to expect there.
