Arteta confirms the availability of new signing Hincapie for the Liverpool vs Arsenal match

In a pre-match interview ahead of the third round of the 2025/26 Premier League against the hosts and reigning champions Liverpool, Arsenal’s coach Mikel Arteta emphasized that the club is not yet able to field Piero Hincapie. Additionally, the fitness of several key players is concerning.

Arsenal have won all their matches in the first two rounds of this Premier League season, defeating Manchester United 1-0 away and beating Leeds United 5-0 at home. However, the victory over Leeds was marred by injuries to two key players, Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka.

Now, things are becoming even more challenging for Arsenal and coach Mikel Arteta as the squad has several players sidelined due to injuries. Previously, Ben White, Christian Norgaard, and Kai Havertz were unavailable. Before the match, Arteta revealed that Bukayo Saka does not require surgery for his hamstring injury, while Martin Odegaard might still be able to play against Liverpool.

The Spanish head coach expressed his concerns:“Bukayo Saka is recovering well, but he will need to sit out for a few weeks. He doesn’t require surgery. Fortunately, his injury is not as severe as last time, but we will have to give him time to return. I am still uncertain about this. Martin Odegaard? He hasn’t trained yet, but he is eager to play against Liverpool. I will have to consult with the medical team about this. However, the coaching staff and I will have to find solutions if Odegaard and Saka are unavailable.

Piero Hincapie? He is a versatile and excellent player, but I can’t say anything yet since he isn’t here. Arsenal will definitely be stronger and have more depth once quality new signings arrive. But I won’t comment further until Piero Hincapie officially joins Arsenal.”

It is highly likely that the expensive new signing from Crystal Palace, Eberechi Eze, will start, either replacing Odegaard or playing on the left wing. As for Hincapie, Arsenal still needs to complete the final steps before signing and introducing the newcomer. The Gunners will loan the 23-year-old Ecuadorian player for one season, with an option to buy for £45 million.

If this option is activated, Hincapie will sign a long-term 5-year contract, including a clause for Arsenal to receive 10% of any future transfer fee. It is expected that tomorrow (August 31, local time), Hincapie will arrive in London for a medical examination.