Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a significant team update ahead of his side's pivotal Champions League encounter with Bayern Munich, confirming striker Viktor Gyokeres will not be available for the midweek fixture.
Gyokeres Injury Blow for Key Clash
The Swedish international, who was forced off at half-time during the victory over Burnley at the start of November, has now been officially ruled out of the visit from the German champions. Gyokeres has been sidelined for Arsenal's recent matches against Slavia Prague and Sunderland and was a notable absentee from the squad for Sunday's emphatic north London derby triumph.
Despite hopes he might feature against Tottenham, Arteta was forced to leave him out, with Mikel Merino deputising in attack. The manager provided the definitive update to reporters on Tuesday, stating Gyokeres was not spotted in training and will not be fit for the Bayern Munich match at the Emirates on Wednesday.
Odegaard's Timely Return and Weekend Hope
In a major boost for the Gunners, captain Martin Odegaard has returned to training with the first-team squad. The Norway international has been out of action since October with a knee injury and missed the derby victory.
Arteta expressed optimism about his captain's availability, revealing a decision would be made imminently. 'We are going to have a meeting now to decide on Martin,' Arteta said. 'We are confident he can be in the squad.' His potential return is a huge positive for a crucial week that also includes a Premier League trip to face Chelsea on Sunday.
Havertz and Gyokeres Fitness Race
While the news on Gyokeres for Wednesday is disappointing, there is hope for a swift return. Arteta confirmed that both Gyokeres and fellow attacker Kai Havertz will be assessed ahead of the weekend. 'Really good both of them,' Arteta said when asked about the pair. 'In the next few days they will have scans to see if we can push them for the weekend.'
Havertz has been out since the opening game of the season after undergoing knee surgery. His recovery was delayed by a setback, but he could now be in contention for the Chelsea match. Arsenal's demanding schedule sees them face the top two in their Champions League group and a key London rival in a matter of days, making these fitness updates critical to their chances of success.
