Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta has announced that key players Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Martin Odegaard will likely be absent from the upcoming international matches due to injuries that continue to disrupt the team’s season.
Arteta’s update follows the latest Premier League match against Chelsea, where both Saka and Rice were forced to leave the field due to injuries. This setback added to Arsenal’s frustrations, with the match ending in a disappointing 1-1 draw.
Arteta expressed concern over the severity of the injuries, especially as both players have been critical to Arsenal’s recent performances. “It doesn’t look good [for Bukayo and Declan],” Arteta stated, emphasizing the significance of the situation.
He noted that when players as integral as Saka and Rice signal they’re unable to continue in a match, it’s rarely a good sign for their recovery in the immediate future.
At this point, Arteta is uncertain about their fitness and availability for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures, saying, “I don’t know whether to expect them to be fit because if not they don’t come off.”
As for Odegaard, he recently returned to the pitch after an ankle injury he sustained in August while representing Norway. Arteta admitted that he has not yet had a chance to fully discuss Odegaard’s condition and recovery timeline with the player, though a more definitive plan will be made after they have a conversation.
Arteta commented, “I will speak to him, and then I can tell you what I prefer,” indicating he may provide further updates on Odegaard’s recovery soon.
The broader impact of injuries on Arsenal’s squad has been a constant challenge for Arteta. Over the past eight weeks, he has managed a string of issues, not only with players who are sidelined but also with those playing under restricted conditions. Some are fit only for limited game time, adding another layer of difficulty in maintaining performance consistency.
Looking to the international break, Arteta hopes that this period will allow his squad some relief and recovery. “I’m praying that after the international break, we have the team fully physically equipped.
That they are available and that they are fit,” he explained, reflecting his desire for a reset after a period he described as a “nightmare.”
Arteta concluded by expressing his faith in the determination and motivation of his squad, despite the recent struggles. “The desire the team has and how much we want it there’s no question. It’s going to come,” he said, underlining his belief in Arsenal’s resilience as they navigate a challenging season filled with uncertainties surrounding player fitness.
