Arsenal’s preparations for this weekend’s highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur have been hit by a fresh injury concern, with Leandro Trossard emerging as a potential doubt following his early withdrawal in the midweek clash against Wolves. However, there is positive news on Bukayo Saka, as manager Mikel Arteta provided reassurance on the winger’s condition post-match.
The Gunners were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw at Molineux on Wednesday night, a result that saw them drop valuable points in the Premier League title race. Trossard, who started on the bench as Arteta stuck with Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank after the Brazilian’s impressive performance in the 4-0 FA Cup victory over Wigan, was brought on in the 73rd minute to replace Saka.
Unfortunately for Arsenal, Trossard’s cameo was short-lived. The 31-year-old Belgian forward clashed with Wolves defender Santiago Bueno, requiring on-pitch treatment from the medical team. Although he briefly continued, Trossard was soon substituted by Riccardo Calafiori, who was unable to prevent Wolves from equalizing in stoppage time through Tom Edozie’s late strike.
As of now, there has been no official update from the club on the extent of Trossard’s injury, but sources close to the team suggest it could sideline him for Sunday’s crucial encounter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. This adds to Arsenal’s growing list of fitness worries as they aim to reignite their title challenge.
On a brighter note, Saka’s substitution appeared precautionary rather than serious. The England international limped off after receiving treatment for what looked like a knee issue, but Standard Sport understands he is expected to be fit for the derby. Arteta, speaking in his post-match press conference, downplayed the concern, stating: “Bukayo felt something in his knee, but it’s nothing major. We took him off as a precaution, and he’s already looking forward to the weekend. He’s a key player for us, and we’ll have him ready.”
Saka himself echoed that optimism during his post-match media duties with the BBC, a clear sign that the injury isn’t severe. “Disappointed. Not much else to say,” Saka reflected on the draw. “There was a big difference in how we played in the first half and the second half. We dropped our standards and we got punished for it. Time to focus on ourselves, improve our standards and improve our performances and it is in our control.”
Arteta’s update on Saka will come as a relief to Arsenal fans, especially with the North London derby looming large. The Gunners have historically relied on Saka’s creativity and goal threat in big games, and his availability could prove pivotal in what promises to be a fiery showdown.
Arsenal currently sit in a precarious position in the league standings, and a win against their arch-rivals would provide a much-needed boost. With Trossard’s status uncertain, Arteta may turn to Martinelli or even youngster Ethan Nwaneri for added attacking options. The manager is expected to provide a fuller squad update in his pre-match press conference on Friday.
Stay tuned for more developments as Arsenal gear up for one of the Premier League’s most intense fixtures.