Heartbreaking news has just been announced for Arsenal a few hours before their clash against Manchester United. Reports from the Emirates confirm that six Arsenal stars are set to miss the big game tomorrow
Arsenal prepares for their midweek match against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium amid several injury concerns and uncertainties about key players.
The Gunners were already missing Mikel Merino, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Thomas Partey in their victory over West Ham on Saturday, a game in which Gabriel Magalhães had to be substituted at halftime.
Manager Mikel Arteta is anticipated to give an update on the status of these players in a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.
What is clear, however, is that Arsenal will be without both Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu for the crucial match. The full-backs are sidelined due to knee injuries and are not expected to return anytime soon.
This double setback adds to the list of defensive absentees, presenting challenges for Arteta as he aims to keep the team’s momentum going.
Despite these injury issues, Arsenal has been in excellent form since returning from the international break last month. They have won three consecutive matches, scoring an impressive 13 goals in that stretch.
This positive run could lead Arteta to stick with his current winning strategy, although decisions regarding personnel still need to be made.
One potential change might see Gabriel Martinelli return to the left wing, possibly replacing Leandro Trossard. Martinelli’s return would bring more energy to Arsenal’s attack.
In midfield, Thomas Partey could make his return at the base of midfield, provided he is fit. However, Jorginho’s solid performance against West Ham might encourage Arteta to keep the Italian playmaker in the lineup.
Defensively, the backline has remained stable over the past three matches, providing the team with a settled look. However, Oleksandr Zinchenko is pushing for a starting spot after an excellent cameo in the win at the London Stadium. His inclusion would give Arteta more tactical flexibility and experience in defense.
The predicted Arsenal lineup for the match is a 4-3-3 formation with David Raya in goal, Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Luca Calafiori in defense.
The midfield is expected to feature Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, and either Partey or Jorginho. Up front, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli are likely to start.
The match is set to kick off at 8:15 PM GMT on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Emirates Stadium. Fans can watch the game live on Amazon Prime Video, with Sam Barrott serving as the match referee.
Despite the injury concerns, Arsenal’s squad offers a mix of experienced players and promising talents, giving Arteta numerous options for the match.
Arsenal is gearing up for a high-stakes midweek clash against Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, though injuries to several key players could impact Mikel Arteta’s plans.
### **Injury Concerns**
The Gunners are facing a mounting injury list:
– **Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu**: Both full-backs are sidelined with knee injuries and unavailable for the foreseeable future.
– **Gabriel Magalhães**: Substituted at halftime against West Ham due to discomfort, and his availability remains uncertain.
– **Mikel Merino, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Thomas Partey**: Merino and Lewis-Skelly missed the last match, while Partey could return depending on fitness. Arteta is expected to clarify their statuses in his Tuesday press conference.
### **Team Form and Tactical Adjustments**
Despite the absences, Arsenal has been in scintillating form, winning their last three matches and scoring 13 goals in the process. Arteta may prioritize continuity while addressing defensive gaps:
– **Defensive Line**: Oleksandr Zinchenko is vying for a starting spot after impressing in a substitute appearance. Luca Calafiori, however, might retain his position on the left, with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães (if fit) forming the central pairing.
– **Midfield Options**: If Partey is unavailable, Jorginho could retain his place alongside Declan Rice and captain Martin Ødegaard.
– **Attack**: Gabriel Martinelli could replace Leandro Trossard on the left wing, adding energy to an already potent front line featuring Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz.
### **Predicted Lineup (4-3-3)**
– **Goalkeeper**: David Raya
– **Defenders**: Ben White (if fit), William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, Luca Calafiori
– **Midfield**: Martin Ødegaard, Declan Rice, Jorginho
– **Forwards**: Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli
### **Match Details**
– **Date**: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
– **Kick-off**: 8:15 PM GMT
– **Venue**: Emirates Stadium
– **Broadcast**: Amazon Prime Video
– **Referee**: Sam Barrott
This fixture is crucial for Arsenal to maintain momentum and stay in the Premier League title race. Despite injuries, Arteta’s squad depth and tactical flexibility give the Gunners a strong chance to secure a result against a tough Manchester United side.
