Following their successful progression in the FA Cup, leaders Arsenal now shift their focus back to league duties with a midweek clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Wednesday night, February 18, 2026.
The Gunners make the journey sitting four points clear at the summit of the Premier League, determined to widen that cushion before Sunday’s north London derby.
Wolves seeking momentum
It took Wolves 20 league outings to secure their first top-flight victory of the campaign, a commanding 3-0 triumph over West Ham last month. That result sparked a four-match unbeaten stretch, though a subsequent three-game slump was halted with a hard-earned goalless draw away at Nottingham Forest.
Under Rob Edwards, Wolves have also advanced to the FA Cup round of 16, a bright spot in what has otherwise been a testing season.
What managers said
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta emphasised the magnitude of the fixture: “I think understanding the difficulty of the match is always there in any game in the Premier League, but when you come to the last stages of the season, you know the importance of every win and what you have to do. I sense the team is in a really good emotional state, really looking forward to playing tomorrow, and that’s why. Play with that energy, that confidence, and I’m sure we’ll continue to do what we’ve done.”
On the opposite bench, Rob Edwards acknowledged the expectations surrounding both teams: “There’s pressure on us because we want to have really good standards. We want to keep improving and building, but of course, there’s pressure in a different way on them and an expectation for them as well. They’ll be feeling that, and we’ve got to make sure that we’re in the game to make them feel that later on as well.”
Team news
For Arsenal, William Saliba made his return in the FA Cup victory over Wigan after missing the Brentford trip. Martin Odegaard was absent against the Latics due to an injury sustained at the Gtech Community Stadium, while Riccardo Calafiori, who failed to complete the warm-up last weekend, has since resumed training ahead of the Molineux test.
For Wolves, Toti Gomes and Hee-Chan Hwang remain unavailable through injury. Edwards admitted some of his squad were showing signs of fatigue following their cup success at Grimsby, with late fitness calls expected.
Tactical outlook
Wolves are expected to line up in a 3-5-2 formation, Edwards’ favoured system. Though he occasionally switches to a back four, the three-man defence remains his go-to approach. Despite their league struggles, their defensive structure has been relatively organised, recently producing consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.
Midfield newcomer Angel Gomes has brought composure in central areas since his January arrival, while teenage prospect Matheus Mane has emerged as a dynamic threat, capable of driving forward and striking from range.
Wolves’ combative style off the ball often leads to high tackle numbers, though it also results in frequent fouls, a reflection of their aggressive pressing game.
Key stats
Arsenal boasts an impressive away record against Wolves, winning nine of their 11 Premier League visits to Molineux. They have also found the net in each of their last 36 meetings with Wolves across all competitions.
The Gunners have dominated teams currently in the relegation zone, claiming 14 straight league wins against such opposition by a combined score of 40-4, the longest streak of its kind in Premier League history.
They have also maintained a perfect record in matches played on Wednesdays this season.
Previous meeting
The reverse fixture earlier this season delivered late drama. An own goal from Sam Johnstone put Arsenal ahead before Tolu Arokodure levelled late on. However, a Yerson Mosquera own goal, following Bukayo Saka’s cross, sealed all three points for the Gunners.
On their last trip to Molineux, Arsenal triumphed 1-0 despite playing with 10 men after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s red card, with Calafiori netting the decisive goal in the 74th minute.
