FBL-SIN-ENG-ITA-ARSENAL-AC MILAN
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has provided a promising update regarding the fitness of Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori ahead of the new Premier League season. Speaking after his side’s narrow 1-0 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in Hong Kong, the Spanish manager expressed confidence that the trio will be ready to feature when the Gunners kick off their campaign against Manchester United on August 17.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Arsenal fell to defeat at the Kai Tak Stadium courtesy of an outrageous long-range effort from Tottenham midfielder Pape Matar Sarr. Although technically labelled a friendly, the match was played in a competitive spirit, with both sides keen to assert themselves ahead of the new campaign. However, Arsenal’s preparations were hampered by the absence of key personnel, particularly in defence.
Arsenal FC v Fulham FC - Premier League
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Gabriel and Timber have yet to feature in any of Arsenal’s three pre-season fixtures during their Asian tour, having both been in recovery following injuries sustained last season. The Brazilian made a tentative return by playing 45 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Watford, marking his first action since undergoing hamstring surgery earlier this year. However, a minor issue in training has kept him sidelined since.
Timber, meanwhile, has been out since undergoing ankle surgery in May. Despite travelling with the squad, the Dutch international was not risked during the tour, and he has been gradually reintegrated into full training. Calafiori, by comparison, was forced off the pitch during the team’s 3-2 win over Newcastle in Singapore. However, the Italian has resumed training and appears to be making good progress in his recovery.
WHAT ARTETA SAID
When asked about the likelihood of Gabriel, Timber, and Calafiori being available for the season opener, Arteta was upbeat: "If they evolve like they've been involved in the last few days, so Gabriel Magalhães, Calafiori and Timber, the three of them will be available."
DID YOU KNOW?
While the news surrounding the defensive trio is encouraging, Arteta may have another injury concern on his hands. Leandro Trossard, who came off the bench in the second half against Spurs, had to be substituted just 15 minutes after coming on. Arteta shed light on the situation, explaining: "He felt a little tweak. I think he tried to turn, and he was pushed, and he felt something muscular, so we'll have to assess him."
Arsenal FC v Newcastle United FC - Premier League
WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Arsenal’s pre-season schedule is far from over. The Gunners are slated to play Villarreal next Wednesday as they continue their preparations for the new season. That match will be followed by their appearance in the Emirates Cup on August 9, where they will take on Spanish side Athletic Club at the Emirates Stadium.
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