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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi will miss Tuesday's Champions League clash against Lille after both suffered ankle injuries ...
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi will miss Tuesday’s Champions League clash against Lille after both suffered ankle injuries following Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference, Arteta described the situation as “far from ideal”, with Hincapié’s injury appearing more serious.
Arteta defends training routine after double injury setback
Both players were injured during a post-match training session designed to maintain fitness levels among those who had played limited minutes.
“It’s never happened in seven years I’ve been here,” Arteta said.
Despite the setback, the Spaniard defended the decision to hold the session, insisting that players must maintain their match sharpness.
Meanwhile, William Saliba has returned to individual training, although Arteta suggested his recovery would still take several weeks.
Arteta challenges Saka to improve goalscoring record
Arteta also urged Bukayo Saka to become more clinical in front of goal, encouraging the England international to target two or three goals per game rather than focusing on seasonal totals.
The Arsenal boss praised Saka’s improved positioning inside the penalty area but believes the winger could already have scored several more goals this season.
Arteta also responded to Lionel Messi’s decision to include 16-year-old Max Dowman among ten emerging football talents.
“His eyes are, I think, better than anybody else’s, so hopefully he’s right,” Arteta said.
The Arsenal manager described Dowman as a special talent, highlighting his movement, touch and composure despite his limited senior experience.
Giroud returns as Arsenal target another European victory
Tuesday’s encounter will see former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud return to the Emirates Stadium with Lille.
Arteta praised his former teammate’s intelligence, physical presence and ability to link up play, insisting that Giroud was never underrated by those who played alongside him.
Arsenal, who opened their Champions League campaign with a 1-0 victory over Napoli, will look to maintain their winning start against Davide Ancelotti’s Lille.
The match kicks off at 8pm BST at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.