Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provided his report on the team ahead of the Gunners’ highly competitive Premier League season opener against Manchester United. In the press conference, Arteta shared the issues of injuries, the readiness of the players, and the health of the team ahead of the game on Sunday at the Emirates Stadium.
Fans have been waiting to know if some of the largest names would make it in time for the game, and Arteta’s words were some positive news and some warning.
Bukayo Saka’s Preparation According to Arteta
One of the most discussed topics has been the fitness of Bukayo Saka, who did not train previously this week. Arteta has confirmed that Saka trained with a minor knock but is in consideration to play. “Bukayo has trained with us the last two days,”Arteta confirmed. “He’s much better, and we’re hoping he’ll be available.”
With Saka’s goal-scoring prowess in the Arsenal team, having him in the team would be a great asset to use against United’s defense. The winger was likely to be one of the best players of last season and would be one of the best threats to this match.
New Signing Fitness Tests
Arsenal’s pre-season signings are also in question. Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino have performed well in pre-season but Arteta stated that they are still adjusting to Premier League speed. They are on the bench and will be coming in at some point, but they are not in the starting lineup.
Declan Rice, with his minor muscle problem at the beginning of the summer, is now fit and has been putting in that extra work in training. His return to midfield will be vital, particularly in keeping the ball against a physical United team.
Defensive Issues According to Arteta
Gabriel Magalhaes has picked up a low-grade hamstring problem at the back but Arteta has described it as “nothing too serious.” He has trained lightly and will have a late fitness test. Oleksandr Zinchenko continues to work on his game fitness after a calf problem and will only be fit enough to start on the bench.
Arteta Discloses Overall Mood
Arteta was positive, stating that the team was ready. “The group mood is great,” he said. “We’ve had a fantastic pre-season and everybody can’t wait to start the season. We know Manchester United will be difficult, but we are in a position to play.”
He also hinted that there some surprises awaiting the opening line-up, i.e., tactical readjustment will be needed. The attacking strength of Arsenal gives Arteta the luxury of replacing Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard, leaving United defence in a quandary.
A Big Test to Begin the Season
It is not easy to come up against Manchester United on the first game, but it should be a good test early on. Arsenal will want to send a message and show that they are intent on making a title challenge this season. With an Emirates Stadium home crowd behind them, Arteta’s team will be eager to begin on the front foot.
The injury crisis is not ideal, but the majority of the team is okay, so Arteta has plenty of choice. In the event that all the top players like Saka and Gabriel pass their fitness tests and are available to play, Arsenal will go into the game with all but a handful of players in working order.
Author’s Note
Arsenal season-opener match against Manchester United is going to be a thrilling season opener. Despite the injuries being an issue, the team appears to be solid and hungry. If the Gunners can carry the pre-season momentum over to Sunday’s match with a good display, they could make an excellent season to come.
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