Mikel Arteta has delivered a significant update on the fitness of several key Arsenal players, including positive news on defender Gabriel, ahead of the Gunners' crucial Premier League trip to Everton this Saturday.
Gabriel Nears Return to Bolster Defence
The Arsenal manager revealed that Brazilian centre-back Gabriel is "not far" from making his comeback to the first team. The defender has been sidelined since suffering a hip injury while playing for Brazil in a friendly against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium last month.
His absence has been keenly felt, with Arsenal managing to keep just one clean sheet in the five Premier League matches he has missed. This period also saw his usual defensive partner, William Saliba, dealing with a knock, though Saliba has now returned to action. Arteta suggested a reunion at the heart of defence could be imminent, stating: "He's pushing hard, as he does. He's doing [training] sessions, he's not too far. We have to see how he progresses but we are quite positive."
Ben White Ruled Out Until New Year
In less encouraging news, Arteta confirmed that full-back Ben White will miss the Everton fixture and is not expected back until 2026. White sustained a hamstring strain during Arsenal's dramatic 2-1 victory over Wolves last weekend.
"He's out [of the Everton game]," Arteta said definitively. "He's evolving well. It's not a major injury but it will keep him out for a few games. It's not a major problem, he's a really fast healer so let's hope to have him after the next few games."
Havertz and Zubimendi Updates
The manager also offered news on two other squad members. There is optimism that forward Kai Havertz, who has been out long-term with a knee injury, could soon be back in contention for a place in the side.
Meanwhile, midfielder Martin Zubimendi was absent from training this week, but Arteta moved to reassure fans that this was not due to a new injury. The Spaniard's absence was attributed to careful load management as part of the club's sports science programme.
These updates come as Arsenal prepare for a challenging visit to Goodison Park on Merseyside, with Arteta needing to navigate these fitness issues to maintain his side's strong early-season form.
