As Arsenal prepares to host AS Monaco at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night, Mikel Arteta faces a race against time to see key players return from the treatment table. Both teams are battling to climb the Champions League standings, with Arsenal narrowly edging Monaco on goal difference. Securing automatic qualification for the Round of 16 remains a top priority for the Gunners as they aim to avoid a grueling knockout phase playoff in an already packed schedule.
Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s injury concerns ahead of the crucial encounter:
Gabriel Magalhaes
The Brazilian defender has missed Arsenal’s last two matches due to a knee injury. While the issue initially raised concerns, Arteta has downplayed its severity, suggesting Gabriel could soon return to the lineup. Despite being evaluated ahead of the Fulham game, he was ultimately deemed unfit to play. His potential return for the Monaco clash remains uncertain and will depend on final assessments by the medical team.
Potential return: AS Monaco (H) – Champions League – Wednesday, December 11.
Riccardo Calafiori
Calafiori’s availability is also in question as he continues to recover from lingering injuries. The Italian defender has struggled with both a calf and knee issue earlier this season, causing him to miss the last two matches. Arteta’s updates have been sparse, leaving fans eager to see if he will be available for the midweek showdown.
Potential return: AS Monaco (H) – Champions League – Wednesday, December 11.
Oleksandr Zinchenko
Zinchenko missed Arsenal’s recent match against Fulham, with Arteta offering limited details on the nature of the injury. Despite the lack of specifics, the manager’s confidence in his squad’s adaptability and resilience remains strong. The Ukrainian defender’s potential return against Monaco is still on the cards.
Potential return: AS Monaco (H) – Champions League – Wednesday, December 11.
Ben White
Ben White’s absence is more prolonged after undergoing a minor procedure to address a persistent joint issue. Arteta confirmed that the versatile defender would be sidelined for months as he recovers from surgery. Although White’s return is expected in early 2025, Arsenal will undoubtedly feel his absence during this critical stretch of the season.
Potential return: Early 2025.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Tomiyasu remains unavailable due to a knee injury that has limited his game time this season to just six minutes. Following a lengthy recovery from a calf problem last year, the Japanese defender’s fitness struggles continue, with no definitive return date provided by the club.
Potential return: Unknown.
