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Piero Hincapie | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Arsenal are back in Champions League action on Tuesday night following their Premier League win at Fulham
Arsenal are in impressive form at the moment and will be looking to keep their momentum going against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday night. They won 1-0 away at Fulham in the Premier League over the weekend. Winger Leandro Trossard got their goal at Craven Cottage as they secured a useful three points.
The Gunners are sat top of the table above the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool. Mikel Arteta’s side have fallen short in the title race over recent years. However, they are hoping that this is their year.
Atletico Madrid injury news
Atletico Madrid are 4th in La Liga and beat Osasuna 1-0 at home last time out. They have received a boost with Nico Gonzalez available for selection. The left-back was taken off with a head injury in their last outing but is part of their travelling squad to play Arsenal which is good news for them.
Defender Ilias Kostis is sidelined with an ACL injury. He will be out of action for a long-term period which is a blow for both him and Diego Simeone. The 22-year-old joined his current club back in 2022 from APOEL and provides competition and depth to their defensive department.
Midfielder Johnny Cardoso is also in the treatment room with an ankle issue. He has missed the last eight games and isn’t expected back against Arsenal. The USA international, who has 22 caps under his belt, was snapped up by Atletico Madrid in July on a five-year deal running until 2030 after catching the eye with league rivals Real Betis.
Arsenal injury news
Arsenal defender Piero Hincapie has returned to training and could make the squad against Atletico Madrid. It has been a frustrating first couple of months for him at the Emirates Stadium. He has managed to play only once so far in this campaign.
Skipper Martin Odegaard is still unavailable. Speaking last week, Arteta said: “There's no definite date for his return, but he's evolving well. It's very unlucky what's happening with him and his injuries this season, but I think he will be back in a few weeks. It could be [after the next Int' break], but we'll have to see how he progresses. It's too early to give an answer.”
Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have been out with more longer term issues. The latter won’t be seen until next year after rupturing his ACL back in January, whilst Havertz is making good progress and is expected back around November time. The Gunners won’t take any risks though and will only play people when they are fully ready.
Meanwhile, Noni Madueke is also still injured. Arsenal landed him in the last transfer window from Chelsea to boost their attacking department and he has since made a positive impression. Arteta has said: “He's getting closer as well. He’s going to start very soon to do some running and stuff, and then again, let’s see how that reacts.”
Out: Kostis, Cardoso, Odegaard, Havertz, Jesus, Madueke
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