Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a big injury update on Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Martinelli ahead of the Premier League clash against Manchester City.
The Gunners are currently top of the table with 64 points on the board and they will be aiming to cement their position with a victory over Pep Guardiola’s side at the Etihad Stadium.
The club have not won at the Etihad since January 2015 and they face a huge test of their credentials.
Ahead of the game, Arteta has provided a mixed update on the injury front. The Spaniard said that Saka, Gabriel and Martinelli have not trained, but there is one more session to go.
The 42-year-old added that there is a chance that the trio could be involved in the matchday squad depending on whether they participate in the final training session tomorrow.
He told reporters: “Yeah there is a chance. They haven’t trained. Tomorrow we have another session, but there is a chance they can be available.”
Arsenal have had a dreadful record against City in the league since late 2017. They had been on a 12-match losing streak until the 1-0 victory at the Emirates Stadium this term.
Martinelli made the difference back then with a late deflected goal. The Brazilian’s pace is a threat against any opposition and the fans will be hoping that he will be available on Sunday.
The winger suffered a cut on his left left during the 6-0 away rout of Sheffield United. We are genuinely hopeful that he will be in the matchday squad to face the Cityzens.
The same goes for Saka and Gabriel. Saka has been Arsenal’s best creative player with 29 goal contributions, and his absence would be a huge blow for the game.
Gabriel has been exceptional with his defending and ability to score from set-pieces. We are optimistic that Saliba and Gabriel will continue at the heart of the defence.
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