Three weeks ago, Mikel Arteta was strategizing for the international break, anticipating the absence of at least four key players from his first-team squad. Now, they’re all back at the Sobha Realty Training Ground. As Arsenal steps away from domestic football during this period, they’re gearing up for a potentially season-defining showdown against Manchester City.
With just nine days until the Gunners face off at the Etihad Stadium, a quartet of players, typically on international duty, have either been withdrawn or omitted from their national squads. While it’s concerning that they’re not considered fully fit, it presents an unexpected opportunity for them to synchronize their efforts ahead of the crucial match
Bukayo Saka was pulled out of the England squad before the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium. He sat out the full training session on Wednesday, focusing instead on his individual fitness program until a statement officially confirmed his departure from the camp.
This action was taken as a precautionary measure due to a minor muscular injury. Saka will undergo rehabilitation at the Sobha Realty Training Ground.
A statement from England said: “Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club for continued rehabilitation.
Gabriel Magalhaes – Gabriel received a call-up from Brazil but was subsequently withdrawn before joining Dorival Junior’s squad. He’s taking a break to address an Achilles issue that has been monitored over the past few weeks. This decision is purely precautionary.
Thomas Partey – Despite receiving a last-minute call-up from his national team, the Ghanaian opted to stay in North London as initially planned, deciding against traveling. Instead, he participated in a behind-closed-doors match against Queens Park Rangers on Thursday alongside a group of younger players.
Takehiro Tomiyasu – Tomiyasu has been sidelined in 2024 due to injury and his participation in the Asia Cup. He made a comeback to the bench for the Champions League second-leg match against Porto. Additionally, he featured in the team that suffered a heavy defeat against QPR.
Gabriel Martinelli – Martinelli did not participate in either the Brentford or Porto matches before the break. He was seen walking through the mixed zone on crutches after the Brentford game, and subsequently sat out of the Champions League match.
Jurrien Timber – Despite his ACL injury, which occurred shortly after his transfer from Ajax this summer, Timber remains actively engaged in training. However, the club has yet to provide a definitive return date for the defender.
