Mikel Arteta Delivers Arsenal Injury Update Ahead of Wolves Clash
Mikel Arteta has confirmed that four Arsenal players will be unavailable for Wednesday's Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Gunners travel to Molineux with an opportunity to extend their lead at the top of the table to seven points, but they will have to do so without several key figures due to injuries sustained recently.
Injury Concerns Arise from FA Cup Victory
The Arsenal injury list expanded during their comfortable 4-0 FA Cup fourth-round victory over Wigan Athletic. Riccardo Calafiori suffered an issue during the warmup, while Ben White had to be withdrawn in the second half of the match. However, Arteta provided a positive update on both players, indicating they are likely to be fit for the Wolves fixture.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Arsenal manager stated, "[Calafiori] is fine. He was training with us today, he's feeling better and hopefully he's fit tomorrow. It was just a bit of fatigue [for White], he did a lot in the game, and was feeling a bit of tightness."
Odegaard and Havertz Ruled Out for Wolves
There was less encouraging news regarding Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz, both of whom will miss the trip to Wolverhampton. Arteta confirmed that Odegaard is not fit for the Wolves match but expressed hope for his return in the North London derby against Tottenham on Sunday. Similarly, Havertz is considered a possibility for the weekend fixture.
"For Wolves, he is not going to be fit, but for Sunday we are hopeful," Arteta added regarding Odegaard. "Kai, for the weekend is a possibility."
Additional Absences in the Squad
Mikel Merino is also sidelined after undergoing surgery for a broken foot, joining Max Dowman in the treatment room. This further depletes Arsenal's options as they aim to maintain their position at the summit of the Premier League.
The Gunners' depth will be tested in this crucial period, with the team navigating multiple competitions and a packed fixture schedule. Arteta and his medical staff will be working diligently to manage player fitness and ensure a strong squad for the upcoming challenges.
