Arsenal will be back in action this Thursday as they kick off their Champions League campaign against Atalanta BC, the 2023-24 Europa League winners. The Gunners are coming off a hard-fought win against Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby last weekend.
Despite the return of Declan Rice from suspension, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing more injury concerns ahead of their upcoming trip to Italy. Here, Sports Mole provides the latest injury and suspension updates for Arsenal ahead of their match with Atalanta, who have had a mixed start in Serie A this season.
Martin Odegaard, the Arsenal captain, suffered a nasty ankle sprain while playing for Norway in the UEFA Nations League. Although initially ruled out for three weeks, Arteta did not completely rule him out for this weekend’s game. However, Odegaard did miss the North London derby and is expected to remain sidelined for the clash with Atalanta.
Riccardo Calafiori is listed as a minor doubt for the Atalanta game due to a calf injury, with a potential return date of September 19. On the other hand, Mikel Merino is currently out with a shoulder injury sustained in his first training session with Arsenal. His return date is unknown at this point.
It seems that Arsenal will have to navigate through their busy schedule while dealing with multiple injury setbacks. Fans will be hoping for a quick recovery for their key players as they aim for success in both domestic and European competitions.