Arsenal vs Wigan: prediction, head-to-head and probable lineups – 15 February 2026
Wigan
One of the FA Cup fourth round ties will take place this Sunday at the Emirates Stadium in London, where Arsenal will host Wigan. Let's take a closer look at a potential bet on the outcome, considering the difference in class and the current form of both teams.
Match preview
Arsenal approach this fixture after a stumble in the Premier League – a 1-1 draw with Brentford – which has narrowed their lead at the top. Mikel Arteta's side still sit atop the league, remain among the Champions League favourites, and are preparing for the League Cup final, so their priorities are clear – the FA Cup is not at the top of their list.
Significant rotation is expected: several key players are either recovering or will be rested due to a congested schedule. Nevertheless, even Arsenal's second string looks far superior to their rivals, especially when it comes to set pieces and aerial duels, where the Gunners are among the very best in the Premier League.
Wigan are going through a serious crisis. After a 6-1 thrashing by Peterborough, head coach Ryan Lowe was sacked, and in their next game the team fell to Reading (1-2), showing no emotional uplift. Over their last six matches, Wigan have suffered five defeats and have not managed a single win, and their position in the League One relegation zone only adds to the pressure.
Personnel issues and poor defensive performances are compounding their problems. Wigan have conceded in six consecutive matches – 15 goals in total – and are particularly vulnerable in the air, which is exactly where Arsenal traditionally make the difference, scoring a large number of goals from crosses and set pieces.
Probable lineups
- Arsenal: Arrizabalaga, Calafiori, Hincapié, Mosquera, White, Lewis-Skelly, Nørgaard, Martinelli, Eze, Madueke, Jesus.
- Wigan: Tickle, Fox, Aimson, Kerr, Hunt, Weir, Smith, Murray, Taylor, Wright, Sadi.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Arsenal have not won the FA Cup since the 2019/20 season, having been knocked out early in each edition since.
- Wigan have failed to keep a clean sheet in their last six matches, conceding 15 goals in that span.
- This season, Arsenal have scored more headed goals than any other team in the Premier League.
Prediction
Even with rotation, Arsenal outclass their opponents in every key aspect – intensity, squad quality, and especially set pieces. Wigan are in crisis and have serious defensive issues, particularly in the air. I expect a confident victory for the Londoners.
