In a pre-match press conference at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, Mikel Arteta provided an update on the fitness of several key players ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Wolves. The manager began by addressing the status of central defender William Saliba, who has been sidelined due to injury. “We have to wait and see,” Arteta said, noting that the team didn’t train the previous day, which gives Saliba an extra day to recuperate. “If you asked me for the Everton game, I think he will be fit; for tomorrow, I don’t know,”Arteta added, indicating cautious optimism.
Arteta also discussed the condition of Jurrien Timber, who missed the team’s recent trip to Brugge with a knock. The coach explained that Timber’s availability would depend on how he feels on match day. “It was a knock that he picked, and he wasn’t feeling comfortable. I think it’s a matter of days, but whether it’s tomorrow or not we’ll see.”
Another absentee from the Champions League victory was Declan Rice, who is recovering from an illness. Arteta acknowledged this situation, stating, “Let’s see how he is today. He was ill, that’s an illness, and normally in a few days it gets resolved.”
Leandro Trossard, who was subbed off against Aston Villa despite scoring the equalizer, also remains uncertain. Arteta described his case as being similar to the others, mentioning, “It’s a matter of days. It sounds boring, but it’s the reality, so we don’t know.”
While the fitness of these players remains in question, Arteta expressed confidence in Gabriel Jesus’s potential impact as he makes his return. After nearly a year out due to an ACL injury sustained in last season’s FA Cup, Jesus made a brief appearance off the bench recently. “We know his quality,” Arteta said, highlighting the energy Jesus brings to the team. “He’s certainly a player that has to be pushing and aiming for [minutes], that’s for sure.”
Arteta also reflected on how the team has managed to maintain its form despite missing key players. He noted the adaptability of players like Christian Norgaard, who recently played in central defense. Despite playing out of position, the team achieved its fifth clean sheet in six Champions League matches. “I think that comes down to the mentality of the players and the intelligence of a player like Christian,” Arteta remarked. He praised the team’s versatility, which has allowed players to step into different roles when needed, underscoring the energy and resilience within the squad as they gear up to face Wolves.
