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PREVIEW: Premier League leaders Arsenal face Bournemouth in their first game of 2026

PREVIEW: Premier League leaders Arsenal face Bournemouth in their first game of 2026
PREVIEW: Premier League leaders Arsenal face Bournemouth in their first game of 2026ČTK / imago sportfotodienst / David Klein

Bournemouth host Arsenal aiming to end their winless streak, while the Gunners look to maintain top spot in the Premier League after a dominant victory over Aston Villa.

Bournemouth's Form and Semenyo Transfer News

Bournemouth extended their winless Premier League run to ten matches after a 2-2 draw with Chelsea on Tuesday. Manager Andoni Iraola stated he was “not fully satisfied” post-match, as the Cherries sit in the lower mid-table and face the possible sale of Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City.

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Iraola confirmed Semenyo will play against Arsenal and a strong showing is needed to break a four-game home winless streak. Bournemouth have drawn three and lost one of their last four home league fixtures.

Arsenal's Title Pursuit and Recent Performance

Arsenal start 2026 atop the Premier League for the seventh time, following a 4-1 win over Aston Villa on Tuesday. Manager Mikel Arteta described the display as “amazing”, with the Gunners now on a four-match league winning run.

Despite their form, Arsenal have won only one of their last four away league games. The team continues to battle Manchester City and Villa at the summit, with Arteta cautious about away challenges.

Head-to-Head Record and Key Statistics

Arsenal have dominated this fixture historically, winning 13 of 18 meetings (D2, L3), and have claimed victory in four of their last six visits to Bournemouth. The Cherries did the double over Arsenal last season.

Bournemouth’s last four league games have averaged 4.75 goals. The Cherries have scored just four first-half home goals this season, while Arsenal boast the league’s best second-half record (W11, D7, L1).

Key Players and Injury Updates

David Brooks scored early for Bournemouth against Chelsea, though his previous four club goals came after the 50th minute. Leandro Trossard contributed a goal and assist for Arsenal versus Villa, with five of his seven goals this term coming after the 55th minute.

Bournemouth report no new injuries. Arsenal’s Declan Rice remains doubtful after a recent knee injury. 

Betting Insights and Predictions

Bournemouth’s recent display against Chelsea suggests they could challenge Arsenal. The recommended bet is Draw/Arsenal in the Half-Time/Full-Time market.

None of Arsenal’s last four away league games have seen a goal before the 25th minute, highlighting a trend of slow starts on the road.

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