Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest prediction 13.09.2025 | English Premier League

The Gunners opened the 2025/26 campaign in style, beating Leeds and Manchester United in their first two fixtures, scoring six goals without reply and showing both attacking fluidity and defensive stability. However, their trip to Anfield before the international break exposed some vulnerabilities in creating chances against elite opposition, as they managed only an xG of 0.49 from 11 attempts on goal.

Arteta’s men will not be at full strength this weekend. Centre-back William Saliba is sidelined with an ankle injury and is expected to miss three to four weeks. Bukayo Saka remains doubtful due to a hamstring issue and could face a longer spell out, while Kai Havertz is still unavailable following surgery.

Forest enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 campaign, narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification on the final day of the season. They carried that momentum into the new campaign, opening with a 3-1 win over Brentford and a respectable 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. However, a heavy 3-0 defeat to West Ham in their third game proved costly for Espírito Santo, who was dismissed shortly after.

New manager Ange Postecoglou will take charge for the first time on Saturday, bringing intrigue and unpredictability to the clash. Known for his attacking, high-tempo football, he faces the immediate challenge of lifting Forest’s confidence in a tough away fixture.