Bukayo Saka’s availability hangs in the balance along with several other Arsenal players ahead of their crucial showdown with Manchester City on Sunday
Mikel Arteta’s continues over the fitness of his key player. Bukayo Saka’s presence could be pivotal in their bid to outmaneuver the reigning champions, bolstering their status as genuine title contenders, especially with Arsenal currently perched at the league’s summit.
Saka opted out of recent England fixtures, reportedly due to a minor muscle concern, prompting Arsenal to closely monitor his condition as he retreated to his North London residence.
Which Arsenal stars could miss the vital clash?
While Saka is in contention for Sunday’s clash, his teammate Gabriel Martinelli’s situation is less certain. Martinelli was spotted on crutches following an injury during Arsenal’s encounter with Brentford weeks ago.
Manager Mikel Arteta has been tight-lipped about the extent of Martinelli’s injury, leaving doubts about his availability. Despite being called up for international duty with Brazil, Martinelli swiftly withdrew, indicating ongoing concerns over his fitness.
Several key Arsenal players are in a race against time to be fit for the upcoming clash with Manchester City, adding to Mikel Arteta’s concerns. Bukayo Saka, integral to the team’s success, withdrew from England duty due to a muscle issue.
While his return to Arsenal saw him under close monitoring for a minor muscle problem, he remains in contention for Sunday’s game. However, Gabriel Martinelli’s availability is less certain.
More misery for Mikel Arteta
The Brazilian attacker, seen on crutches after an injury during Arsenal’s match against Brentford, has left Arteta cautious about revealing details regarding his condition. Despite being called up for international duty, Martinelli swiftly withdrew, signaling ongoing fitness concerns.
In addition to Saka and Martinelli, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, and Thomas Partey are also facing doubts according to TheMirror, Gabriel’s foot issue led to his departure from the Brazil camp, though it has been monitored since.
Timber, who made his debut months ago, is back in full training but may only play a cameo role due to his extended absence from competitive action. Meanwhile, Partey has featured in recent league fixtures and a closed-doors friendly, but his status for the City clash remains uncertain. As Mikel Arteta navigates these uncertainties, Arsenal’s hopes against Manchester City hang in the balance.
As Arsenal navigates their dual ambitions in the league and Europe, Mikel Arteta’s men find themselves with a slightly different schedule compared to Manchester City. While they don’t have FA Cup commitments to contend with alongside their league and European endeavors, they are gearing up for the midweek grind of the Champions League, where they are set to face Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.
