Manchester United legend Roy Keane has forecasted a narrow victory for Arsenal as they travel to face Everton this Saturday night. Speaking on the latest episode of The Overlap (specifically the Stick to Football podcast), Keane predicted a 2-1 win for Mikel Arteta’s side, which would secure their position at the top of the Premier League table heading into Christmas Day.
Despite backing the Gunners to take all three points, Keane warned that the Toffees remain a significant threat from dead-ball situations. He specifically identified Everton defender James Tarkowski as the likely source of a goal for the hosts, noting the physical challenge he presents during set pieces.
“2-1. I think Everton might get one from a set piece. [James] Tarkowski. 2-1 Arsenal,” Keane stated during the discussion with Ian Wright and Jill Scott.
Match Context and Stakes
Arsenal enters this fixture at the Hill Dickinson Stadium following a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Wolves, a result that allowed them to maintain a slim two-point lead over Manchester City. Conversely, Everton is looking to rebound after a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea. David Moyes’ side has shown resilience at their new home this season, but they will be missing key creative players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (injury) and Iliman Ndiaye (AFCON duty).
Keane vs. Wright: Differing Views
While Keane expects a competitive affair, Arsenal icon Ian Wright was far more bullish about his former club’s prospects. Wright initially predicted a comfortable 3-0 victory for the North London side, though he expressed slight concern over whether defender Gabriel Magalhães would be fit to return to the starting lineup to handle Everton’s aerial threat.
A victory on Saturday is vital for Arsenal, as they aim to avoid the “Christmas Curse” that has seen them fail to win the title in the last four seasons where they led the league on December 25.
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