Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is grappling with a significant injury crisis as his league leaders prepare for a tough Premier League away fixture against Aston Villa this afternoon. The Gunners travel to Villa Park for the early Saturday kick-off with several key players facing late fitness tests.
Defensive Headache for Arteta
The most pressing concerns are in defence, where Arsenal's resources are being stretched thin. Gabriel Magalhaes is already ruled out until the end of December, while fellow centre-back William Saliba has now missed the last two matches. Arteta remained vague on Saliba's specific issue on Friday, stating only that "it is a matter of days" before the Frenchman returns.
Compounding the problem, summer signing Cristhian Mosquera injured his ankle in an awkward landing during the midweek win over Brentford. Arteta admitted this injury is "more complicated" and requires further assessment, making the defender a major doubt for the Villa clash.
Late Calls on Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard
Further up the pitch, the news is also concerning. Midfield linchpin Declan Rice, an ever-present this season, was seen clutching his calf before being substituted late against Brentford. While the player himself told reporters he was "fine" leaving the Emirates, Arteta is taking no chances.
The manager confirmed a late decision will be made on Rice's involvement, stressing that "every hour is important" in the lead-up to the match. With a Champions League fixture against Club Brugge next week, there is a strong argument for resting the England international.
Forward Leandro Trossard is another doubt after limping off against Bayern Munich last week, and Kai Havertz remains a few weeks away from a return.
Predicted Arsenal Line-Up and Key Decisions
Should Saliba and Mosquera both be unavailable, Arteta will be forced into another defensive reshuffle. Jurrien Timber slotted in at centre-half against Brentford and could continue there, with Ben White hoping to retain his place at right-back after a fine performance.
In attack, Viktor Gyokeres is fit again but Arteta's continued faith in Mikel Merino suggests the Spaniard may get the nod to lead the line once more at Villa Park.
The match kicks off at 12:30pm on Saturday 6 December and will be broadcast live on TNT Sports 1, with streaming available via the Discovery+ app.
