Arsenal face injury crisis ahead of North London derby
Arsenal could be missing up to eight players for the highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham, as Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a deepening injury crisis.
The Gunners, who are keen to keep up their title push, have been hit with several fresh blows after key players picked up problems both on international duty and in recent club matches.
Arsenal captain, a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s midfield, Martin Odegaard sprained his ankle while playing for Norway against Austria.
His absence, alongside Declan Rice, who will miss the match due to suspension following his second yellow card against Brighton, leaves Arsenal thin in the center of the park.
Adding to Arteta’s concerns, new signing Ricardo Calafiori picked up an unusual injury during Italy’s win over France. The defender was on the receiving end of a collision with Ousmane Dembele, further complicating the team’s defensive options.
Gabriel Jesus, who has been out with a groin issue since the opening match against Wolves, remains a doubt, and his attacking presence will be sorely missed.
Injuries to Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino, who injured his shoulder during his first training session, deepen the concerns.
Meanwhile, Takehiro Tomiyasu is still struggling with a lingering knee problem, and Kieran Tierney is not in Arteta’s plans for the match.
Despite these setbacks, Arsenal will aim to capitalize on Tottenham’s shaky form, knowing that derby day is never short on surprises.
With Arteta’s squad stretched thin, the challenge grows steeper, but Arsenal’s resilience will be put to the test as they fight to stay in the title race.
