Arsenal will line up with Williamson in the starting eleven for Thursday’s Champions League clash against Lyon, a match streamed live on Sky Sports. The English side, seeking to overturn a first‑leg deficit, will rely on the midfielder’s energy in midfield. Fans worldwide can watch live. The fixture, part of the group stage, carries weight for Arsenal's European ambitions.

Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the Tuesday decision, noting Williamson’s recent form and defensive work‑rate earned him the nod. With several regulars rested after a busy schedule, the Irish international’s inclusion signals a shift toward a more compact shape. Analysts expect his pressing to disrupt Lyon’s quick transitions. The switch also gives Arteta a chance to assess Williamson’s chemistry with signing Gabriel Jesus in the third.

Should Arsenal secure a positive result, they would level the aggregate and force extra time, reviving hopes of progressing to the quarter‑finals. Conversely, a loss would deepen the gap and likely end their European campaign. Lyon, who secured a 2-0 home win in the first leg, will look to exploit Arsenal’s weakened back line. The midfield battle will also test Lyon’s star forward, whose recent scoring spree has troubled opponents.