Arsenal Face Wigan in FA Cup Fourth Round Clash at Emirates

Arsenal shift focus from their Premier League title challenge to cup competition this weekend, hosting Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup's fourth round. The Gunners dispatched Portsmouth 4-1 in the previous round, whilst the Latics pulled off an upset by edging Championship outfit Preston North End 1-0.

The north London side remain the competition's most successful team but have endured a barren spell at this particular stage. Since claiming their 14th FA Cup triumph in 2020, they've stumbled out at the fourth-round hurdle twice—to Southampton in 2020-21 and Manchester City in 2022-23.

Arsenal's recent form has been mixed. Thursday's 1-1 stalemate with Brentford leaves them just four points clear of Manchester City, and with European commitments looming, the cup represents both opportunity and distraction. They're chasing silverware on multiple fronts, but this weekend's assignment against lower-league opposition offers a chance to build momentum.

Wigan, meanwhile, arrive in dire straits. Since their third-round victory over Preston, they've managed just one draw across six League One outings, losing five times and slipping into the relegation zone. The Latics have also endured a managerial upheaval, with interim boss Glenn Whelan stepping in after Ryan Lowe's sacking midweek.

Team News and Tactics

Arteta will shuffle his pack considerably. Kepa Arrizabalaga replaces David Raya in goal, whilst Ben White, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Christian Norgaard—all peripheral figures in the Premier League—should feature. Sixteen-year-old centre-back Marli Salmo could earn his full debut after appearing as a substitute against Portsmouth.

The injury list remains problematic. Mikel Merino continues his recovery from foot surgery, Kai Havertz is sidelined with a muscle complaint, and Max Dowman—recently returned to training after two months out—may arrive too soon. Martin Odegaard's knock sustained against Brentford makes him a doubt, whilst William Saliba sits out due to illness.

Wigan's injury troubles are equally concerning. Baba Adeeko and Luke Robinson have resumed training but won't be risked. Harry McHugh remains a long-term absentee following ankle surgery, and James Carragher's involvement is uncertain after missing consecutive matches. Captain Jason Kerr, however, has returned following a 13-game absence and will lead the team.

Historical Context

This marks the first meeting between the clubs since the 2014 FA Cup semi-final, when Arsenal prevailed on penalties with Arteta—then a player—scoring in the shootout. Arsenal haven't won at home in the competition since beating Newcastle 2-0 in January 2021.

Wigan's record against the Gunners is grim. They've lost ten of eleven away visits across all competitions, with their sole victory coming in a Premier League clash in April 2012 under Roberto Martinez. However, they've won their last six FA Cup away matches, conceding just once during that run.

Match Prediction

With rotation inevitable and Wolves looming, Arsenal should still cruise past their lower-league opponents. The hosts possess sufficient depth to control proceedings and secure a clean sheet, with an Arsenal win to nil trading at 11/20. A comprehensive 4-0 victory is available at 6/1.

Gabriel Martinelli, who bagged a hat-trick in the third round, remains a threat. The Brazilian is priced at 13/10 to score anytime and could add to his tally against a defence that's conceded the opening goal in seven of their last eight matches.

Fixture Details

The match kicks off at 16:30 GMT on Sunday, February 15 at the Emirates Stadium. TNT Sports 1 will provide live coverage from 16:00, with TalkSPORT offering full commentary.