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- Asked for a fitness update, Arteta said Gyokeres is definitely not available and did not train today. They need more tests and scans in the next few days to understand the extent of the injury.
- Asked about the cup quarter-final set two days after a Premier League match, Arteta said hopefully they will move the league match, because playing that late does not make any sense.
- Arteta said he is concerned, because Gyokeres has not had many muscular issues and had to leave the pitch. That is never a good sign, especially for a very explosive player.
- Asked about being one clean sheet from equalling a club record, Arteta said the collective organisation is very strong. Players defending every ball with energy, intelligence and aggression has been key.
“If you expect the linear line, everything going up is not going to happen.”
- Asked whether squad depth eases worries about the fixtures, Arteta said they have seven players out, a lot of them front players. So he does not know what depth is being talked about.
- Asked if there is a pattern to injuries in the forward area, Arteta said four long-term knee injuries is very unusual. Muscular injuries can happen, and every club is having them.
- Asked by a local journalist about his former teammate, Arteta said he is one of his favourite players he played with. If he has the chance and he is available tomorrow, they will see each other.
Mikel Arteta press conference ahead of Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Matchday 4 encounter with Slavia Praha, revealing Arsenal injury crisis and expressing frustration at the congested fixture schedule.
Arsenal manager confirmed Viktor Gyokeres is ruled out with a muscular injury and will undergo scans to determine the extent. With seven players already out, Arteta questioned the logic of scheduling a Carabao Cup quarter-final just two days after a Premier League match, urging the authorities to “respect the players” and apply fairness across the premier league.
Despite the setbacks, Arteta praised his team’s defensive discipline, pointing to the club’s streak of Champions League clean sheets and the collective mentality driving their performances.
He also credited Gabriel Jantze for his leadership and impact on the backline, while highlighting the professionalism of players like Christian Norgaard, who may start in midfield due to injuries and suspensions.
The Spaniard addressed Declan Rice’s yellow card risk, the absence of Zubimendi, and how difficult decisions must be made during key fixtures especially with Bayern Munich match in the next group stage game.
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