According to a report by the London Evening Standard on Monday, October 26, 2026, Arsenal are expected to make several changes to their starting lineup for Tuesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round clash against Fleetwood Town, with Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhaes, David Raya and William Saliba likely to miss out on starting following their attendance at the Ballon d’Or ceremony in London.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is also expected to attend the prestigious ceremony after being recognised among the leading managers in world football. The scheduling of the event could affect his preparations for the cup fixture, potentially forcing him to adjust his selection and give other members of the squad an opportunity to feature.

Rice has been a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield this season, contributing significantly to the team’s stability and performance. His possible absence could open the door for other midfielders to impress Arteta and demonstrate their ability to handle greater responsibilities. The manager will need to select suitable alternatives capable of maintaining Arsenal’s control and creativity in the middle of the pitch.

Gabriel has also played an important role in the Gunners’ defensive structure. If he does not start, another defender could be given the opportunity to partner the available centre-backs. Saliba’s expected absence could also influence Arsenal’s defensive arrangements, particularly given the attention surrounding his fitness earlier in the campaign.

Meanwhile, Raya’s potential omission from the starting lineup could create an opportunity for another goalkeeper to feature in the competition. Arteta has frequently rotated his players during domestic cup matches, using such fixtures to assess squad depth and provide valuable playing time to those who have struggled to secure regular Premier League appearances.

Despite the possible changes, Arsenal will be determined to produce a strong performance and secure qualification for the next round. The manager is likely to balance the need to rest important players with the importance of maintaining competitive standards.

Fleetwood Town, meanwhile, will welcome the Premier League visitors with hopes of causing an upset. The League Two side could view Arsenal’s potential lineup changes as an opportunity to challenge their more experienced opponents and create a memorable moment in the competition.

Arsenal’s squad depth should help them remain competitive despite the expected absences. The encounter will also offer fringe players an opportunity to impress Arteta and strengthen their chances of earning more regular playing time during the demanding season.