Arsenal Faces Injury Challenges Ahead of Bournemouth Match
Arsenal is gearing up for a crucial clash against Bournemouth on Saturday evening, with a chance to move to the top of the Premier League table.
However, manager Mikel Arteta is dealing with several injury concerns as the team prepares for the match.
Confirmed Absences
- Martin Ødegaard: The club captain will definitely miss the game due to a foot injury.
- Kieran Tierney: Out with a hamstring injury.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu: Sustained a fresh injury, though the severity is still being assessed.
- Neto: Ineligible to play against his parent club.
Doubtful Players
- Bukayo Saka: Picked up a muscular injury during the international break, but Arteta remains hopeful about his fitness. “It’s not a serious injury… He’s evolving really well,” said Arteta.
- Gabriel Martinelli: Doubtful after landing awkwardly while with Brazil. Arteta is monitoring his condition closely.
Other Injury Updates
- Kai Havertz: Dealing with minor issues but expected to be fit for the game.
- Ben White, Jurrien Timber, and Oleksandr Zinchenko: All are “quite close” to returning, with hopes for some positive news following today’s training.
Squad Depth
With several senior players unavailable, Arsenal will rely on a mix of experience and youth for this match. Currently, 17 fit and eligible senior players are available, meaning academy stars may need to step up. Tommy Setford is set to act as cover for David Raya due to Neto’s ineligibility. Youngsters Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly are likely to be included in the squad.
Possible Squad for Bournemouth
- Goalkeepers: Raya, Setford
- Defenders: Saliba, Gabriel, Kiwior, Calafiori, White, Timber, Zinchenko
- Midfielders: Partey, Rice, Merino, Lewis-Skelly, Jorginho, Nwaneri
- Forwards: Saka, Trossard, Sterling, Jesus, Havertz
Arsenal’s depth will be tested, but a strong performance could send a message to the league as they aim for the top spot.
Arsenal Faces Injury Challenges Ahead of Bournemouth Match
