Coach Mikel Arteta addresses the injury crisis at Arsenal

Mikel Arteta shared multiple updates about the physical condition of several first-team players before the London derby versus Brentford on the morning of December 4 (Vietnam time).

William Saliba missed the draw with Chelsea last weekend due to an injury sustained during training, and head coach Mikel Arteta revealed that the French defender’s return remains uncertain for the upcoming match against Brentford - scheduled for 2:45 AM on December 4.

Mikel Arteta commented at the Sobha Realty Training Centre: “Saliba has a minor issue, so I think it’s just a matter of a few days. Let’s see if he can be involved tomorrow. The earlier ankle injury (at the start of the season) was a very random and extremely unlucky incident that sidelined him for weeks. Saliba tried to play at Anfield but wasn’t comfortable and had to withdraw. This time is similar, quite strange, but hopefully it’s only a matter of days.”

Leandro Trossard was another player absent last weekend, with hopes to return to the squad this week. The Arsenal head coach confirmed the Belgian star does not have a serious problem.

However, fans will have to wait longer to see Kai Havertz back: “A few weeks. We will monitor the situation over the coming weeks. He’s recovering well, has started training on the pitch, but still needs more time.”

Another long-term absentee is Gabriel, but the Arsenal coach remains optimistic, stating the Brazilian defender is making good progress in his recovery: “Big Gabi is also recovering very well, but it will take a few more weeks.”

Regarding the recent injury situation, Mikel Arteta was asked about rotation and resting key players like Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber – both of whom have played three matches in eight days.

However, coach Mikel Arteta emphasized that he always aims to field the strongest team possible in every circumstance, regardless of the form it takes:

“We always try to manage each case, each individual based on how they feel and the context of the matches, adjusting with the sole goal of having the best options, the best lineup on the pitch to outperform the opponent, that’s all. But I believe that in every game we play, when you look at the intensity of the Premier League against any opponent, the demands are extremely tough.

Brentford brings different threats, different challenges, and you must control those if you want to win.”

Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres is expected to be ready to compete for a starting spot in the upcoming match at the Emirates Stadium. The Swedish striker returned from the bench in the game against Chelsea last weekend, after dealing with a muscle issue during the 2-0 victory over Burnley last month.

Now, Gyokeres might get the chance to start for the first time since early October, when he suffered an MCL ligament injury in the 2-0 win against West Ham.

Arsenal currently lead the 2025/26 Premier League table with 30 points, five points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.

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