Ahead of Arsenal’s highly anticipated match against Liverpool on Sunday afternoon, the team has received mixed injury updates concerning key players. The Gunners may face significant challenges due to potential absences in their squad.
Riccardo Calafiori is set for a late fitness check after missing open training on Friday. He suffered a knee injury during Arsenal’s midweek victory over Shakhtar Donetsk, which led to his substitution after 73 minutes.
In addition, Jurrien Timber remains a major doubt. The Dutch defender has been sidelined since being substituted at halftime during Arsenal’s Champions League triumph over Paris Saint-Germain on October 1. He, too, missed training on Friday.
Mikel Arteta commented on Timber’s situation.
Mikel Arteta said “We expected him to be further back than where he is at the moment, but again we have to wait and see.”
Arteta added that Ronald Koeman, the head coach of the Netherlands, is not considering Timber for selection during the November international break and has omitted him from the provisional squad. The specifics of Timber’s setback remain unclear; however, his previous ACL injury last season is noted as a concern.
Another key player, Bukayo Saka, might miss the match. The winger has been out since sustaining a muscle injury in England’s loss to Greece earlier this month. Saka did not participate in open training either.
Mikel Arteta addressed Saka’s fitness.
Mikel Arteta said “He’s done a bit of training on the grass. How far we can get him before Sunday is another question.”
Arsenal will also be without their captain, Martin Odegaard, who is still in the recovery phase from ligament damage. In his program notes prior to the Liverpool match, Odegaard provided an update on his recovery.
Martin Odegaard said: “I feel like it’s close now but, although I haven’t been involved in games lately, I feel I’ve still been able to use that time pretty well, too. That’s the aim now, look at the positives and use this time in a good way. When I’m back I’m going to be feeling pretty good, I’m sure.”
