Mikel Arteta has addressed the injury crisis at Arsenal after 11 players withdrew from international duty ahead of the season's finale. The withdrawals have sparked criticism from rival fans, who question the timing and severity of the issues.
Arteta admitted the international break is a period he does not enjoy, especially with so many players involved. He cited recent history with key players getting injured on international duty as a major concern. The withdrawals began after Arsenal's Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City, with William Saliba (ankle), Jurriën Timber (groin), Gabriel Magalhães, Leandro Trossard, and Eberechi Eze all pulling out.
Captain Martin Ødegaard also withdrew from Norway's squad due to a persistent knee issue, while Noni Madueke and Piero Hincapié limped out of friendlies for England and Ecuador. Both are expected to miss the FA Cup trip to Southampton but could return soon. Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice were given time off by England, with Thomas Tuchel insisting they had genuine issues.
Martín Zubimendi became the 11th player to withdraw, citing left knee pain. He has played more Premier League minutes than any other Arsenal player this season. Arteta has been reluctant to use Christian Nørgaard as a deputy in big games, despite the Dane's experience. The focus now shifts to how many of the withdrawn players will feature against Southampton.
