Mikel Arteta is grappling with a significant defensive shortage as Arsenal prepare to host Brighton & Hove Albion at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon, aiming to solidify their position at the Premier League summit.
Defensive Crisis Deepens for Gunners
The most pressing concern remains the absence of Brazilian centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes. The defender has now missed the club's last nine matches and, crucially, has still not returned to full training. Arteta confirmed the ongoing issue in his pre-match press conference, stating, "He hasn't trained yet, he's still doing his rehab. But hopefully as quickly as possible because we know the situation that we have in the back line."
With Piero Hincapie also a doubt after picking up an injury against Everton and Cristian Mosquera still sidelined, Arteta's options are severely limited. This could force a reshuffle, with Riccardo Calafiori likely to start in central defence and Myles Lewis-Skelly potentially deputising at left-back.
Injury Updates on Martinelli and Havertz
Further up the pitch, winger Gabriel Martinelli is another doubt after sustaining a knock during the Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace. Arteta revealed the Brazilian "wasn't comfortable to carry on after the second half" in that match.
However, there is a major positive on the horizon for the North London side. Kai Havertz, who has been out since suffering a knee injury on the opening day of the season against Manchester United in August, is "quite close" to a return. While a start against Brighton seems improbable, the German international could make a long-awaited appearance from the substitutes' bench.
Arteta expressed his delight at the prospect, saying, "He's a player that we missed a lot, a player that brings the team into a different dimension. So, I'm really happy to have him back very soon." He indicated the comeback could be a matter of days rather than weeks.
Brighton's Boost and Match Details
Brighton, meanwhile, have received encouraging news ahead of the trip to the capital. Striker Danny Welbeck is fit again after missing the draw with Sunderland, and key defender Jan Paul van Hecke is also set to be available, providing Roberto De Zerbi with a double injury boost.
The Premier League encounter kicks off at 3pm today (Saturday, December 27, 2025). The match is not being broadcast live on television in the UK.
Arsenal's predicted lineup is expected to reflect their injury woes, with changes in defence almost certain. The return of Havertz, even if from the bench, would provide a significant lift for a squad looking to maintain its title charge during the busy festive period.
