Goalkeeper - Emiliano Martinez

Martinez's superb form at the back end of last season has set up an intense battle with Bernd Leno for the number one shirt. Although the German is back from a knee injury, the Argentine looks likely to be given the nod after starting in the Community Shield.

Centre-back - William Saliba

A neck injury has ruled David Luiz out of Saturday's game, which means Saliba could be thrown into the team for his Arsenal debut. Gooners have been excited to see the talented young Frenchman in action since his arrival from Saint-Etienne last summer and they may finally get their first glimpse.

Centre-back - Rob Holding

A loan move to Newcastle United looked imminent a few weeks back, but a U-turn from Arteta means Holding will stay at the Emirates this season, and he will likely marshall the defence against Fulham.

Centre-back - Kieran Tierney

Arteta may well stick with the back-five system that help guide Arsenal to FA Cup triumph last season, and Tierney could operate as the left centre-back. Supporters will be keen to see new signing Gabriel Magalhaes in action, but he is still getting up to speed having not played since early March.

Right-wing back - Hector Bellerin

The Spaniard has been linked with a summer exit in recent weeks, but he looks set to stay and fight for his place. He should start ahead of Cedric Soares at Craven Cottage and will be keen to get his season off to a good start.

Left-wing back - Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Another player linked with a move who now appears set to stay, the versatile Englishman has impressed on the left despite being right-footed and could start there against Fulham.

Centre midfield - Granit Xhaka

The Swiss international has nailed down his place in the middle of the park and has become a key player under Arteta. He is nailed on to start against Fulham.

Centre midfield - Dani Ceballos

Back for another loan spell, Arsenal supporters were delighted to see him return after impressing last season, and he will be hoping to rekindle his partnership with Xhaka in midfield.

Right-winger - Bukayo Saka

Nicolas Pepe and Willian are both in contention to start, but the young Englishman has impressed in the behind-closed-doors friendlies and could start at Craven Cottage. Regardless of who does start, Arteta will be pleased to have plenty of attacking options.

Left-winger - Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Arsenal talismanic captain looks end speculation over his future and sign a new deal, and he will be hoping to find the net against Fulham on the opening day and get his season off to the perfect start.

Striker - Alexandre Lacazette

The Frenchman is set for an intense battle with Eddie Nketiah to lead the line this season, and he should be given the nod at Craven Cottage. There has been speculation surrounding Lacazette's future and he will be keen to stake his claim and improve on his poor form last season.