Three weeks ago Mikel Arteta was planning for the international break without at least four of his first team squad that are now present at the Sobha Realty Training Ground. During the time away from domestic football Arsenal are preparing for a potentially season-defining clash against Manchester City.
It is just nine days until the Gunners travel to the Etihad Stadium and a quartet of players often away on duty with their countries have all been withdrawn or left out of squads. Whilst it is somewhat of a concern that they have not been deemed fully fit to play, it is an unexpected chance to work together ahead of the game.
At this stage none of the problems are thought to be serious with Arteta hopeful of having a near fully fit squad for the game. However, the fitness of his players will be monitored closely in the build-up.
Here, football.london has the latest from the Arsenal treatment room.
Bukayo Saka
Saka was withdrawn from the England squad ahead of friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. He missed the full training session on Wednesday and worked on his own fitness programme before a statement confirmed his exit from the camp.
football.london understands that this is a precautionary measure due to a minor muscular injury. He will undergo rehabilitation at the Sobha Realty Training Ground.
A statement from England said: “Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club for continued rehabilitation. The Arsenal forward reported to St. George’s Park with an injury and has been unable to participate in training.
“No further replacements are planned as a 25-man England squad continue their preparation for the forthcoming internationals with Brazil and Belgium.”
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Injury: Muscular.
Return date: Manchester City (A) – Sunday, March 31.
Gabriel Magalhaes
Gabriel was called up by Brazil but was later taken out before going away with Dorival Junior. He is resting an Achilles issue that has been managed in recent weeks. football.london understands it is just a precautionary measure.
Injury: Achilles.
Return date: Manchester City (A) – Sunday, March 31.
Thomas Partey
The Ghanaian received a late call-up from his national side but elected to remain in north London instead after planning not to travel. He was involved in a behind-closed-doors game against Queens Park Rangers on Thursday alongside a group of younger.
He finally got back into match action a few weeks before the final international break of the season. He is now building fitness for the rest of the campaign.
injury: N/A.
Return date: Returned.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Tomiyasu hasn’t played in 2024 due to injury and his appearance at the Asia Cup. He returned to the bench for the Champions League second-leg tie against Porto. He was also present in the team that were well beaten by QPR.
injury: N/A.
Return date: Returned.
Gabriel Martinelli
Martinelli was not involved against either Brentford or Porto before the break. He was spotted by football.london walking through the mixed zone on crutches after the Brentford game, before sitting out in the Champions League.
His setback was not thought to be too serious and the Brazil forward has, seemingly, trained in some part.
Injury: Foot.
Return date: TBC.
What Arteta has said: “Not many updates [before the win over Porto]. We’re trying to have everybody fit and available.”
Jurrien Timber
Timber continues to be involved in training following his ACL injury – which came shortly after his move from Ajax this summer. However, a firm date for the defender to return has not been given by the club.
The 22-year-old made two appearances for The Gunners before injury unfortunately derailed his debut season. He didn’t play against QPR despite stepping up his recovery in training. football.london understands it is still too soon to know if he will be fit to play Gagainst City.
Injury: Knee.
Return date: TBC.
What Arteta has said: “Not many updates [before the win over Porto]. We’re trying to have everybody fit and available.”
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