Arsenal duo Odegaard and Saka undergo late fitness evaluations for the critical match against Man City
Arsenal are gearing up for a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City this weekend, with manager Mikel Arteta expressing confidence in his squad's preparations. The Gunners sit second in the league, just behind Liverpool, while Manchester City find themselves in eighth position.
The north London club will make last-minute decisions on the fitness of key players ahead of the game. Centre back William Saliba, who was substituted early in the last game against Liverpool, faces a late fitness test. Arsenal's captain Martin Odegaard and winger Bukayo Saka are also undergoing fitness assessments.
If fit, Saliba, Odegaard, Saka, and other first-team members such as Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and others from the 25-man registered squad, along with eligible Under-21 players if needed, are expected to be included in the squad.
Arteta has praised Pep Guardiola, stating that what he has achieved in the Premier League is unprecedented. The Arsenal manager believes that Guardiola can continue to achieve success in the league, but also acknowledges that his demands are high due to his desire to maintain the high standards he has set.
The upcoming game against Manchester City is seen as a good test to measure Arsenal's current level. The Gunners are unbeaten in their last four league encounters with Manchester City, including a 5-1 win in their last fixture in February.
Arsenal have improved their squad depth after spending big in the off-season, as shown by the impact of substitutes Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard in their Champions League opener. The duo, who were on the bench after the signings of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, made an instant impact by scoring in Arsenal's 2-0 win against Athletic Bilbao.
However, Saka has been sidelined due to a hamstring injury, while Odegaard has been battling a shoulder problem. Arteta will provide more information on the players' fitness after tomorrow's training session.
Viktor Gyokeres and Mikel Merino are both fine after head injuries in the Champions League game. The Arsenal manager expressed his confidence in preparing for the game against Manchester City with the aim of winning.
This promises to be an exciting match, with both teams eager to secure a vital three points. Stay tuned for more updates as the story unfolds.
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