In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been forced to make an unexpected change to his squad for the crucial final match of the Premier League season against Everton. Rising star Bukayo Saka will not be part of the lineup for this crucial encounter.

Currently sitting in second place, Arsenal still harbors hopes of snatching the league title from leaders Manchester City, who are just two points ahead. Their fate relies on securing a victory against Everton, while also hoping for City to drop points against West Ham.

Throughout the previous four league games, Arteta had opted for an unchanged starting XI. However, Saka, who suffered a cut on his leg during a match against Bournemouth earlier this month, aggravated the injury during their recent victory over Manchester United. As a result, he will be absent from the squad entirely for this pivotal match.

To fill the void left by Saka, Arteta has decided to include Gabriel Martinelli in the starting lineup, alongside midfielders Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard. Despite concerns over Thomas Partey's performance in the last game against Manchester United, Arteta has chosen not to make any other changes to the team. The likes of Jorginho, who recently signed a new contract with Arsenal, will remain on the bench, along with Jurrien Timber, who is making his return from a long-term injury.

Intriguingly, Aaron Ramsdale has also made the squad for what could potentially be his final game with Arsenal, as rumors of a summer move circulate. The rest of the lineup includes Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Tomiyasu, Rice, Odegaard, and Partey.

The stakes are incredibly high for Arsenal, as they aim to secure their first league title in 20 years. The absence of Bukayo Saka, who has been a key performer for the Gunners throughout the season, poses a challenge. However, with Gabriel Martinelli stepping into the lineup, Arteta will be hoping for an inspired performance from his team to keep their title hopes alive.

The match against Everton promises to be an exciting and nerve-wracking encounter, as Arsenal fans eagerly await the outcome of this season-defining clash.