Arsenal kick-off their Premier League campaign on Saturday and despite it being the first game of the season, the Gunners have some injury concerns heading into the fixture at the Emirates on Saturday afternoon. Here’s a round-up of all the players with concerns.
Laurent Koscielny
Arsenal received a major boost today as Arsene Wenger stated Laurent Koscielny ‘should be fit’ for this weekend’s game. The French defender was substituted at half-time during Arsenal’s Community Shield victory last weekend, where it was stated he was doubtful for the opening league game of the season and should be back for the Besiktas clash on Tuesday.
However, the latest developments will come as a big boost to Arsenal, who are also without Per Mertesaker due to his late return following the World Cup in Brazil- where Arsenal’s German trio were successful and lifted the trophy.
Abou Diaby
Arsene Wenger stated today that Abou Diaby had returned to first-team training but will not be available for the weekend clash against Crystal Palace. The French midfielder is lacking match fitness after another injury setback before the Emirates Cup but he should return sooner rather than later.
Theo Walcott
Arsenal’s explosive winger remains on the sidelines this weekend after picking up an injury in the FA Cup victory against North London rivals Tottenham in February. There has been no updates this weekend on the condition of Walcott, with his return date still stated as the end of August or the beginning of September.
Ryo Miyaichi
Arsenal’s young winger will be available for selection again shortly but will miss the opening game of the season, though it was doubtful he would have featured even if he was available. However, Wenger stated he was ‘very close’.
David Ospina
Arsenal’s new goalkeeper is unavailable after an injury picked up during Colombia’s World Cup campaign, with the problem occurring in the defeat to host nation Brazil. The Colombian stopper is two or three weeks away from contention due to his thing injury.
Serge Gnabry
Arsene Wenger refused to comment on the condition of young German star Serge Gnabry but he will be unavailable this weekend.