Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is grappling with a significant injury crisis as his side prepares for a vital Premier League encounter against Everton at Goodison Park tonight. The Gunners head to Merseyside with several first-team players unavailable, testing the squad's depth during the busy festive period.
Defensive Headaches for Arteta
The defensive line has been particularly hard hit. While William Saliba returned from an ankle problem in last weekend's nervy 2-1 win over Wolves, his usual partner, Gabriel Magalhaes, remains out with a thigh injury. To compound matters, Ben White is set for a spell on the sidelines after limping off with a hamstring issue in that same match.
This leaves Arteta with limited options at the back. Cristhian Mosquera is also injured, but there is a boost with Riccardo Calafiori available again after serving a suspension. The manager's main decision will be who partners Saliba, with Piero Hincapie the likely candidate to step in.
Midfield and Attack Concerns
Further up the pitch, the news is mixed. There was a scare involving midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who was substituted in the second half against Wolves and missed training earlier in the week. However, Arteta has confirmed the Spaniard is fit and available for selection, easing a major concern.
The attacking department presents another puzzle. Kai Havertz has not featured since the season's opening game following knee surgery in August. He has suffered a minor setback, and his return is now pushed back until mid-January at the earliest.
Striker Gyokeres is also under scrutiny, having failed to score since returning from a hamstring injury in November. His blank against Wolves has opened the door for Mikel Merino, who impressed with goals and assists during the Swede's absence, to potentially start.
Title Race Pressure and Predicted Lineup
This fixture takes on extra significance with Manchester City playing earlier in the day. Pep Guardiola's side could be top of the table by the time Arsenal kick off at 8pm, increasing the pressure on the Gunners to deliver a convincing performance after their shaky display against bottom-side Wolves.
Despite the injuries, Arteta can still field a strong side. The predicted lineup is expected to be close to his first-choice XI, with Hincapie deputising for Gabriel in defence. The major selection dilemma remains in the forward line, where Merino could be favoured to add creativity against a resilient Everton team managed by David Moyes.
Everton vs Arsenal kicks off at 8pm on Saturday 20 December. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with streaming available via Sky Go and NOW TV for subscribers.
