Arsenal's Squad Challenges Ahead of Wolves Fixture
Mikel Arteta continues to navigate a series of minor injury setbacks within his Arsenal squad as the Premier League leaders prepare for their away match against Wolves this evening. The Gunners secured a comfortable 4-0 victory over Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup over the weekend, making several rotational changes. However, the pre-match warm-up brought an unexpected concern when Riccardo Calafiori sustained an injury, forcing a last-minute adjustment to the starting lineup.
Injury Updates and Player Availability
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Arteta expressed optimism regarding Calafiori's condition. 'He's fine; he was training with us today, he's feeling better, and hopefully he's fit for tomorrow,' the Arsenal manager stated. This positive update suggests the Italian defender could be available for selection against Wolves.
In the absence of Calafiori during the FA Cup match, Myles Lewis-Skelly shifted to the left-back position, while Bukayo Saka was deployed in an experimental number 10 role. Arteta might consider utilizing Saka in a similar capacity against Wolves, especially with key midfielders Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard ruled out due to fitness issues.
'No, for Wolves he [Odegaard] is not going to be fit,' Arteta confirmed regarding the Arsenal captain. 'But for Sunday we're very hopeful that he can be with us. Kai is the other one that again, for the weekend is a possibility, so looking forward to having him in the squad.'
Predicted Lineup and Tactical Decisions
Starting Saka in a central role could allow Noni Madueke to retain his position on the right wing, where he has shown impressive form in recent weeks. However, this tactical move might relegate Eberechi Eze to the bench, despite his encouraging performance against Wigan over the weekend.
Despite Arteta's reassuring comments on Calafiori's fitness, it may be considered risky to immediately reintegrate the defender into the starting eleven. Defenders Piero Hincapie, Jurrien Timber, and Gabriel, who were fully rested during the FA Cup match, are expected to return to the backline against Wolves.
In midfield, Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi are anticipated to make their comebacks, while Arteta could reintroduce Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyokeres to the starting lineup in attacking positions. This league encounter holds significant importance, as a victory could extend Arsenal's lead over Manchester City by seven points, potentially making it an unsuitable moment for experimental formations.
With this in mind, Arteta may opt for a more conventional approach by keeping Eze in midfield and deploying Saka in his preferred right-wing role, which would result in Madueke being benched.
Match Details and Broadcasting Information
The Wolves versus Arsenal match is scheduled to kick off at 8pm today, Wednesday, 18 February. The game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. Additionally, streaming options are available through the Sky Go app and NOW TV for subscribers.
