Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an injury update ahead of their Premier League fixture against Brighton. While some players were initially expected to miss the match, they have now been declared fit for action. However, Arteta remains cautious about the availability of key players William Saliba and Gabriel Martinelli, who are confirmed to be sidelined for the upcoming game.
Mikel Arteta said: “He’s out. We are assessing him but he won’t be involved in this match.”
Speaking of Martinelli, Arteta said: “It looks as well he’s going to be out. We have to do some more tests and see the extent of the injury but this game is going to be too early for him.”
Despite the setbacks, Arteta confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka, who were previously considered doubtful, will be available for the match. The absence of Martinelli exacerbates Arsenal’s attacking challenges, with Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus already sidelined due to injuries. Arteta acknowledged the difficulties in the front line, emphasizing the need for careful squad rotation.
Arteta added: “In the front line, that’s where we have more difficulties with Noni out, with Kai out, with Gabi Jesus out, with Gabi Martinelli out as well. That’s the area where we have to be more careful, more conscious, because we don’t have that many options.”
Summer signing Viktor Gyokeres, who has a history with Brighton, has been a consistent presence for the Gunners this season, featuring in all 12 of their Premier League and Champions League fixtures, and scoring five goals. His form will be crucial as Arsenal navigates their attacking shortages. Arteta’s decision to rotate the squad reflects a strategic approach to managing player fitness amid a congested fixture schedule.
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