Arteta Fears Fitness Crisis Could Hinder The Gunners' Silverware Hunt
Mikel Arteta has voiced fears that his team's pursuit for honors this campaign is being threatened by a worrying circle of fitness setbacks and a grueling schedule.
Fresh Team News
Star player Declan Rice missed the midweek trip to Belgium due to sickness. In addition, forward Leandro Trossard and center-back William Saliba are still unavailable.
There was, however, positive news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian striker added to their European squad. He comes in for the injured youngster Max Dowman, who picked up an ankle problem.
"Practice, no because we don't have time to train. But obviously the fact that you are without players, you are placing demands on other players more, there's a knock-on effect to that and it's a really vicious circle."
Dowman's setback is the most recent in a long series of injuries for the North London side. Since the beginning of last season, they have recorded 95 player absences, the second-most total in the Premier League.
Extended Absences
- Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are unlikely to be back until the new year.
- Midfielder Kai Havertz still rehabilitate from knee and "requires more time," as stated by the manager.
Arteta rejected the suggestion that practice methods were to blame, citing a lack of time for sessions. He emphasized the pressure on fit players, some of whom have featured over 150 matches in two seasons.
Recruitment Strategy
Even after a significant summer investment over £250 million, Arteta stated the team is not looking to dip into the January recruitment market.
"At the moment we're just focusing on bringing the players back and with luck it will be a question of weeks," he commented. "We know how crucial those coming weeks are going to be."
Next Challenge
The team experienced their initial defeat in 18 games at the hands of Aston Villa, cutting their lead at the top of the league to two clear points.
Focus now shifts to the European stage, where a sixth group-stage win would virtually guarantee a knockout phase finish. Forward Gabriel Martinelli could create a club record by finding the net in a fifth straight consecutive European fixture.
"We are frustrated with the result, but we have to move forward," he said. "It's not like all is going wrong because we lost one game. So we remain united."
