As Arsenal prepares for a high-stakes showdown against Liverpool on Sunday, head coach Mikel Arteta finds himself in a race against time to field his best possible team.
Arteta hinted that late fitness calls on key players Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, and Jurrien Timber could shape Arsenal’s lineup—a critical decision as the Gunners aim to keep pace in the Premier League.
Addressing media on Friday at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, Arteta was frank about the uncertainty surrounding his squad.
“We’re going to do our very best to somehow have them available, but it’s very uncertain,” he remarked.
Despite Saka resuming light training, his readiness for Sunday remains up in the air.
“How far we can get him to Sunday, that’s a different question,” Arteta added, underscoring Saka’s importance to Arsenal’s attacking dynamic.
With the young winger’s fitness in question, Arsenal fans are left wondering if the squad will be without one of its most crucial playmakers.
Riccardo Calafiori’s status also remains ambiguous, with further tests scheduled.
“Last time, we thought it was really bad, and he ended up playing two or three days after,” Arteta noted, suggesting cautious optimism for the defender’s participation.
Meanwhile, Timber, who has been sidelined recently, could make a surprise return. Although he’s joined training sessions, Arteta hinted that a cautious approach will likely be taken.
Adding to the selection conundrum, Arsenal will be without William Saliba, who is suspended following a red card in last weekend’s clash with Bournemouth.
Arteta acknowledged the stability Saliba has brought to the backline, emphasizing the need for adaptability.
“We have to find a different solution, which is something that, as a team, we need to be good at as well,” Arteta asserted.
The uncertain lineup against a relentless Liverpool side could impact the Gunners’ performance significantly. With tactical changes inevitable, Arteta’s adaptability and choice of substitutes may prove crucial in what could be a season-defining fixture for Arsenal.