Arsenal Faces Key Fitness Tests Ahead of Clash with Man City

Arsenal is poised for a significant test as they prepare to face Manchester City in the Premier League this weekend. The club will make crucial last-minute decisions regarding the fitness of captain Martin Odegaard and winger Bukayo Saka, both of whom are undergoing late fitness evaluations. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Friday that their participation in the match will hinge on their performance in a training session scheduled for Saturday.

Saka has been sidelined since sustaining a hamstring injury last month, while Odegaard has struggled with a shoulder issue, having exited early in Arsenal’s last two home matches. With Arsenal currently sitting in second place, just behind Liverpool, the team cannot afford to lose points against City, who are eighth in the league standings.

“If there is a chance they play on Sunday, it will be after tomorrow’s session, because they haven’t done anything yet, so we’ll have more information tomorrow,” Arteta told reporters. He emphasized that their training adjustments are focused on ensuring the best outcome for both players.

In addition to the concerns regarding Saka and Odegaard, centre-back William Saliba, who left the pitch early during a recent 1-0 defeat to Liverpool, will also face a late fitness assessment. Arteta noted that both Viktor Gyokeres and Mikel Merino are fit following head injuries sustained in the Champions League clash against Athletic Bilbao earlier this week.

Strength in Depth

Arsenal’s recent struggles with squad depth have been a significant factor in their title challenges over the past few seasons. However, following substantial investments during the transfer window, the team appears better equipped this season. Arteta praised the impact of his substitutes in the Champions League opener, highlighting Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, who both made immediate contributions by scoring in the 2-0 win over Bilbao.

“You look historically at the top teams, the impact that the finishers have had has always been really high,” Arteta remarked. “You need that quality nowadays to unlock games, and to be consistent every three days is even harder. That’s what we need.”

He added that the depth of talent available this season provides Arsenal with a competitive edge, allowing for greater consistency in performance.

Head-to-Head History

Arsenal’s recent record against Manchester City has improved significantly, as they remain unbeaten in their last four league encounters. This includes a striking 5-1 victory over Pep Guardiola’s side in February. Arteta expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, stating, “The preparation for the game will be to win, that’s for sure. Competing against one of the best teams in the world is a good test for us to see our level.”

He also took a moment to commend Guardiola’s impressive track record, acknowledging the high standards he has set in the league. “What he’s already done in this league is unprecedented. The level that he’s put into the standard of this league is, in my opinion, unprecedented,” Arteta said.

As Arsenal gears up for this crucial match, the outcome could significantly influence their ambitions for the season, particularly as they seek to solidify their position at the top of the Premier League standings.