Mikel Arteta has delivered updates on Bruno Guimaraes and Jurrien Timber ahead of Arsenal's Premier League opener against Coventry.
Guimaraes, a £75million summer signing from Newcastle, played a half against Manchester City as the Gunners ran out 3-0 winners in the Community Shield last weekend. However, the Brazilian was spotted in the second half sitting on the bench with ice on his right thigh, prompting injury concerns among supporters.
Arteta on Guimaraes fitness
Arsenal are next in action on Friday night as they begin the defence of their Premier League title at home to newly-promoted Coventry, and Arteta has delivered an update on the midfielder. Speaking on Thursday, the Spaniard revealed: "Let's see how he is. He's evolving really well but let's see for tomorrow."
If Guimaraes is ruled out, Arteta does have the option of starting Martin Zubimendi or Declan Rice alongside Myles Lewis-Skelly after confirming the England international, and Bukayo Saka, are available for selection. "They are ready to be involved," the Gunners boss added.
Timber still sidelined
Timber, meanwhile, has not featured for the Gunners since making a substitute appearance in the Champions League final penalty shootout loss to Paris Saint-Germain at the end of May. Prior to that, Timber had been sidelined since limping off during the 2-0 win over Everton on March 14.
In his prolonged absence, Ben White and Cristhian Mosquera have shared right-back duties, while Ezri Konsa will provide further cover once his £51million transfer from Aston Villa is finalised. Speaking after the Emirates Cup loss to Borussia Dortmund on August 9, Arteta said the Dutchman was still a few weeks away from a return and the situation has not changed.
"I said in the next few weeks," Arteta explained. "He's not trained with the group yet."
