Summary:
- Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, and Jurrien Timber all picked up fresh knocks ahead of the Newcastle clash.
- Long-term absentees Gabriel Magalhaes, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Gabriel Jesus remain sidelined.
- Kai Havertz and Jorginho could return, but the timing remains uncertain.
Arsenal’s injury woes show no signs of letting up as the season nears its end, with Mikel Arteta facing a growing list of absentees at a crucial time.
Arteta on Rice: “It Does Not Look Good”
Already navigating a campaign riddled with setbacks, the Gunners are now limping toward the finish line with key players sidelined and fitness concerns piling up ahead of vital clashes against Newcastle and Southampton.
One of the biggest concerns is Declan Rice, who missed Sunday’s draw with Liverpool. He had not trained in the lead-up to the match, and Arteta later hinted at a hip issue.
“I think he is struggling, it does not look good“, the manager admitted. Rice’s availability for the next match remains unclear.
Jurrien Timber was also left out of the action at Anfield, despite being on the bench.
Arteta explained Timber wasn’t ready: “With Jurrien we brought him to see if he was better but it was clear that he was not fit to play.”
Fortunately, his inclusion in the squad suggests the issue isn’t too serious, and he may return against Newcastle.
Doubt for Trossard, Hope for Havertz
Leandro Trossard, who filled in up front, was forced off in the second half, clutching his hamstring. No immediate update was provided post-match, leaving doubts about his fitness in the short term.
Kai Havertz, who has been sidelined since February with a hamstring injury, could play before the season ends.
Arteta offered hope recently, saying:
I think if everything goes the way it’s going at the moment… he will have a chance to play a few games here in the season.
With only two matches left, the clock is ticking. Jorginho remains out with a suspected lung issue and hasn’t played in the last four league games.
Though listed for the PSG second leg, it appears that it is more symbolic than competitive. His future at the club is uncertain, and he may have already played his final match for Arsenal.
Gabriel Magalhaes has undergone hamstring surgery and won’t return until next season. Arsenal confirmed:
Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure… with the aim to be ready for the start of next season.
Takehiro Tomiyasu continues his recovery from knee surgery, posting a defiant message to fans:
It has been the toughest period in my career… but I won’t give up.
Gabriel Jesus, meanwhile, is recovering from an anterior cruciate ligament injury and is unlikely to return before autumn.
Can Arsenal finish the season strong or will the injuries undermine their position in the league? Get the best odds from Non UK Betting sites.