Mikel Arteta new season
Image credit: Getty Images
Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal could be without another player for their Premier League meeting with Leeds United on Saturday, adding to the Gunners’ growing injury concerns.
The Arsenal manager revealed that Ben White’s involvement is in doubt after the defender missed Wednesday’s open training session, where Kai Havertz, Christian Norgaard and Gabriel Jesus were also absent. Havertz has since been ruled out for several weeks following knee surgery, while Norgaard remains sidelined.
“Christian won’t be in the squad,” Arteta said. “With Ben, let’s see how he reacts and what we decide. Christian will be out for another week or so.”
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White’s potential absence would be a blow for Arsenal, who opened the season with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s first-half header. The Gunners now prepare for newly-promoted Leeds, who are chasing their first Premier League away win since March 2023.
Arsenal - Ben White
Ben White (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arteta also provided updates on Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Jesus, stressing the need for careful management of both players. Timber, who has only recently returned from a long-term injury, is being eased back gradually.
“On Jurrien, we have to manage his load,” Arteta explained. “He’s been out for a long time again, so we’ve decided to take some training down, especially during the open session.”
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Meanwhile, Jesus is continuing his recovery from a serious injury and is showing positive progress. “Gabi is doing super well,” said Arteta. “He looks in a really good place. It’s a massive injury, but he’s making very strong strides.”
Arsenal’s summer signings Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke are set to make their home Premier League debuts at the Emirates this weekend, while the club races to finalise the £68 million signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. The England international completed his medical on Friday, but unless the deal is registered in time, he will be forced to watch from the sidelines.
With fitness concerns mounting and new arrivals still bedding in, Arteta faces key selection decisions ahead of a tricky encounter with Leeds under the Emirates lights.
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