Mikel Arteta Arsenal
Arsenal is currently dealing with a significant injury crisis, with six first-team players sidelined due to various issues. Among those affected are Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Odegaard, and Kai Havertz. Despite the challenges posed by these absences, Arsenal’s squad depth has been instrumental in helping manager Mikel Arteta navigate the situation. However, Arteta would undoubtedly prefer to have his full squad available as the team faces crucial fixtures ahead.
Mikel Arteta said: “I can’t confirm all of that, but you are not far [off],” when asked if all five would still be out. He added, “Some of them, all of them I don’t know. There are a lot of things that have to happen in the next two weeks, and everything has to be perfect, but I think we’ll be very close with most of them to be in a really strong position.”
Arteta’s comments suggest that Gabriel Martinelli might be the player closest to returning, as he had mentioned earlier in the week that Martinelli would need “tests and scans to understand the extent of the injury.” The manager also indicated that Martin Odegaard and Noni Madueke are targeting returns for the North London Derby against Tottenham later this month. Meanwhile, Kai Havertz’s recovery could take longer, as he recently underwent a minor procedure on his knee.
Arteta continued: “When he’s done that, obviously we’re going to have to – especially in the first few weeks – keep an eye on him to manage the amount of minutes and when we play him.”
In addition to these concerns, Arsenal is also missing Gabriel Jesus, who underwent surgery after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in January. Arteta expressed uncertainty about Jesus’s return timeline, emphasizing the importance of a day-by-day recovery process.
Arteta admitted: “I don’t know,” when asked how long it could be before Jesus returns. “Now it’s about making the steps day-by-day in a different surrounding.”
The situation underscores the challenges Arsenal faces in maintaining competitive form amidst a spate of injuries. As the team prepares for upcoming matches, Arteta’s management of player fitness and squad rotation will be crucial in navigating this difficult period.
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