Bournemouth vs Arsenal, January 3, 2026 – Live Streaming & Match Preview

The Premier League action continues into the New Year as title-chasing Arsenal travel to the South Coast to face Andoni Iraola's high-energy Bournemouth side at the Vitality Stadium. This Saturday evening fixture promises intrigue as the Gunners look to maintain their momentum following the busy festive period, while the Cherries aim to upset the odds on their home turf.

Match Overview

This match is pivotal for different reasons. Arsenal cannot afford slip-ups in what is shaping up to be another tight title race. Bournemouth, comfortable in mid-table, are looking to solidify their status and perhaps push for a European spot, making them a dangerous opponent, particularly at home where their pressing game thrives.

How to Watch: TV Channels & Live Streaming

Fans worldwide can tune in to watch Bournemouth vs Arsenal live. Below are the primary broadcast rights holders for major regions:

• United Kingdom: The match will be televised live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Live streaming is available via the Sky Go app for subscribers.
• United States: Viewers in the US can watch the game on NBC or stream it via Peacock Premium.
• Canada: The match is available exclusively for streaming on fuboTV Canada.
• Australia: Optus Sport holds the exclusive rights for all Premier League matches.
• International: Check local listings for regional Premier League rights holders (e.g., SuperSport in Africa, beIN SPORTS in MENA).

Predicted Lineups and Tactical Analysis

Both managers will likely rotate slightly following the congested December schedule, but strong XIs are expected for this important fixture.

Bournemouth Team News & Formation (4-2-3-1)

Andoni Iraola will likely stick to his preferred 4-2-3-1 system, relying on intense pressing to disrupt Arsenal's build-up. The key will be quick transitions when they win possession in midfield.

• Predicted XI: Neto; Smith, Zabarnyi, Senesi, Kerkez; Cook, Christie; Semenyo, Scott, Tavernier; Solanke.

Arsenal Team News & Formation (4-3-3)

Mikel Arteta's side will utilize their familiar 4-3-3, looking to dominate possession and pin Bournemouth back. The focus will be on breaking down the Cherries' low block if the initial press is bypassed, with wingers providing the primary creative outlet.

• Predicted XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Rice, Odegaard, Merino; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.

Match Preview and Key Points

Arsenal enter this game knowing that dropping points at venues like the Vitality can be fatal to title aspirations. Their defensive solidity, led by Saliba and Gabriel, will be tested by the physical presence and movement of Dominic Solanke.

Bournemouth's approach will be crucial. If they sit too deep, Arsenal's creative midfielders, Odegaard and the potential inclusion of Merino, will likely pick them apart. However, if Bournemouth's press is coordinated and aggressive, they can force errors from the Gunners' backline, which has occasionally looked vulnerable in transition this season.

Let's keep an eye on the wide areas; the duel between Bukayo Saka and Milos Kerkez will be fascinating to watch and could provide the breakthrough for either side.

Recent Head-to-Head

Arsenal have historically dominated this fixture in the Premier League era, though Bournemouth have proven capable of springing surprises at home.

Date	Competition	Home Team	Score	Away Team
04/05/2025	Premier League	Arsenal	3 - 0	Bournemouth
19/10/2024	Premier League	Bournemouth	0 - 2	Arsenal
04/05/2024	Premier League	Arsenal	3 - 0	Bournemouth
30/09/2023	Premier League	Bournemouth	0 - 4	Arsenal
04/03/2023	Premier League	Arsenal	3 - 2	Bournemouth

Prediction

While Bournemouth are a tough nut to crack at home under Iraola, Arsenal's need for points in the title race should provide the necessary motivation. The Gunners' superior quality in depth and defensive organization should see them through, but expect a tight, combative encounter. We predict a hard-fought victory for the visitors.

Final Score Prediction: Bournemouth 1 - 2 Arsenal