Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces the possibility of being without eight key players for their Premier League match against Bournemouth.
The injury list includes Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber, who were already sidelined, and Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli, both absent from the previous week’s squad.
Martinelli had picked up his injury in the previous game against Everton. Despite a significant investment in the summer aimed at mitigating injury impacts, the team has been grappling with additional injuries.
New signing Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are the latest concerns after their injuries in the match against Tottenham. Rice left the field at half time due to a back injury, while Saka, who played as right-back during the match, limped off in the late stages, hampered by mobility issues.
On a positive note, Mohamed Elneny made a return from his long-term injury and could provide a boost in midfield, especially with Rice and Partey out.
Arsenal’s injury situation has forced Arteta to adapt and consider alternative lineup options.
Emile Smith Rowe, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Reiss Nelson were given opportunities in the Carabao Cup match against Brentford, where the Gunners rotated their squad. Jorginho took up the holding role in the absence of Rice.
Arteta provided updates on various injured players, including Martinelli, Trossard, Saka, and Fabio Vieira, suggesting they haven’t been available for training.
There’s also concern regarding William Saliba’s fitness due to a back injury that plagued him last season.
Although Saliba has been a consistent starter this season, a potential injury might disrupt this streak. Tomiyasu’s recent start as a center-back hints at possible adjustments in the defensive lineup.
Amid the growing injury worries, Mohamed Elneny’s return is a positive aspect for the team. Elneny made his first appearance since a previous season injury and aims to contribute to the team’s midfield strength.
The increasing number of injuries poses a significant challenge for Arteta as he navigates team selection and strategizes for the upcoming game against Bournemouth.
