Arteta Updates on Saliba & Timber Fitness in Press Conference
Mikel Arteta, the head coach of Arsenal, recently provided updates on the fitness of key players ahead of their upcoming Champions League match against Kairat Almaty. Notably, defenders William Saliba and Jurrien Timber are unlikely to participate, having missed training earlier this week.
Fitness Updates on Saliba and Timber
During a press conference held at the Sobha Realty Training Centre, Arteta confirmed that both Saliba and Timber will not be available for the match. He stated, “It’s a good opportunity now that we make a different kind of work with them to get them in the best possible condition for the weekend, hopefully.”
Additional Player Absences
- William Saliba – out
- Jurrien Timber – out
- Mikel Merino – suspended
- Declan Rice – suspended
In addition to Saliba and Timber’s absence, Arsenal will also miss Mikel Merino and Declan Rice due to suspensions after both received three yellow cards in the first seven league matches.
Squad Depth and Management Approach
With four key players sidelined, Arteta emphasized the importance of squad depth. He remarked, “It’s been like this for the first seven months of the competition… We are used to it, so that’s never going to be an excuse.”
Arteta also noted that this season’s squad is the largest he has managed since taking over in 2019. He highlighted the quality and character within the team, stating, “It’s very enjoyable… it’s not about numbers, it’s about the quality of the numbers.”
As Arsenal prepares for the important fixture against Kairat Almaty, Arteta appears confident in his ability to utilize his squad effectively amidst these challenges.
