مدير عام كرة القدم
- Arsenal defenders currently sidelined with injuries
- Undergoing tailor-made rehabilitation programmes
- Arteta believes they will be available for the PL opener
Arsenal fell to defeat at the Kai Tak Stadium courtesy of an outrageous long-range effort from Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr. Although technically labelled a friendly, the match was played in a competitive spirit, with both sides keen to assert themselves ahead of the new campaign. However, Arsenal’s preparations were hampered by the absence of key personnel, particularly in defence.
Gabriel and Timber have yet to feature in any of Arsenal’s three pre-season fixtures during their Asian tour, having both been in recovery following injuries sustained last season. The Brazilian made a tentative return by playing 45 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Watford, marking his first action since undergoing hamstring surgery earlier this year. However, a minor issue in training has kept him sidelined since.
Timber, meanwhile, has been out since undergoing ankle surgery in May. Despite travelling with the squad, the Dutch international was not risked during the tour, and he has been gradually reintegrated into full training. Calafiori, by comparison, was forced off the pitch during the team’s 3-2 win over Newcastle in Singapore. However, the Italian has resumed training and appears to be making good progress in his recovery.
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When asked about the likelihood of Gabriel, Timber, and Calafiori being available for the season opener, Arteta was upbeat: “If they evolve like they’ve been involved in the last few days, so Gabriel Magalhães, Calafiori and Timber, the three of them will be available.”
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While the news surrounding the defensive trio is encouraging, Arteta may have another injury concern on his hands. Leandro Trossard, who came off the bench in the second half against Spurs, had to be substituted just 15 minutes after coming on. Arteta shed light on the situation, explaining: “He felt a little tweak. I think he tried to turn, and he was pushed, and he felt something muscular, so we’ll have to assess him.”
Arsenal’s pre-season schedule is far from over. The Gunners are slated to play Villarreal next Wednesday as they continue their preparations for the new season. That match will be followed by their appearance in the Emirates Cup on August 9, where they will take on Spanish side Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium.
