In yesterday’s press briefing, Mikel Arteta provided an injury update ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City, adopting a cautious approach when discussing Bukayo Saka and the two Gabi’s.
Arterta’s Statement on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes
“There is a chance. They haven’t trained but tomorrow we have another session so there is a chance that they can be available.”
Arteta’s discretion regarding player fitness mirrors a common tactic employed by top managers to maintain strategic ambiguity. Speculation arises whether two out of the three players mentioned will start, with Martinelli possibly featuring as a substitute.
Furthermore, there’s intrigue surrounding Takehiro Tomiyasu and Thomas Partey’s injury status, with Arteta’s omission of updates suggesting their readiness for selection.
Of particular interest is the potential midfield partnership between Partey and Declan Rice, designed to bolster Arsenal’s performance in challenging away fixtures such as the upcoming match against Manchester City.
Manchester City confirmed injury list.
Injury concerns also extend to Manchester City, with Kyle Walker and John Stones sidelined due to injuries sustained while on international duty.
However, City’s substantial defensive investments ensure they still possess formidable options, including academy graduate Rico Lewis, Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardoil, and Nathan Ake, valued at around £200 million.
Arteta on Arsenal’s tittle chances
Arteta also expressed his belief that Arsenal is better prepared to confront City this season than in the past. He pointed to their victory in the home game as evidence of this improvement.
Reflecting on last season’s outcomes, where Arsenal suffered defeats in both encounters against Manchester City, Arteta highlighted the significant impact those losses had on the title race, contributing to City’s eventual triumph and Arsenal’s second-place finish.
However, contrasting this with the current campaign, Arsenal has already secured a victory against City and earned four points out of six against Liverpool.
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However, until the match unfolds, preparations remain focused on mundane tasks like fence painting and driveway sanding, highlighting the team’s dedication to meticulous preparation.
