According to Metro, Former Arsenal legend, Cesc Fabregas, has some suggestions for Mikel Arteta regarding the squad selection. Arsenal will face Tottenham in a North London Derby, their next Premier League fixture. However, Arsenal are facing some major injury issues before going to the match. Spanish midfielder, Mikel Merino, is out due to a shoulder injury in training. Italian defender, Riccardo Calafiori, got injured against France in the UEFA Nations League match during the international break. Moreover, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is suspended from the game after getting a red card in the match against Brighton.
The most significant setback for Arsenal is the injury to their captain and creative midfielder, Martin Odegaard. The Norweigan midfielder’s ability to read the game and control the tempo while scoring and assisting goals for the team is an important part of Mikel Arteta’s setup. Odegaard got injured in Norway’s 2-1 victory over Austria in the UEFA Nations League fixture during the international break. It looked like a serious injury after Odegaard was taken off the field by the medical staff. Images of the midfielder on crutches were later seen on social media. Luckily, the midfielder has avoided any long-term injury. However, Odegaard will be out of action for three weeks.
Cesc Fabregas suggests Leandro Trossard in midfield
In the absence of Odegaard, former Arsenal captain, Cesc Fabregas, wants Mikel Arteta to play Leandro Trossard in the midfield. Trossard’s technical abilities, work rate, and intelligence on the ball make him a suitable candidate to replace the Arsenal captain. Trossard is naturally a winger, however, the Belgian has the versatility required to play in the central role. Arsenal will need creativity in the front to break through Tottenham’s tight defense. Trossard can give the extra edge to Mikel Arteta’s squad when going forward.
Other than Trossard, Kai Havertz, and Ethan Nwaneri are also potential options for the central role. Kai Havertz is a versatile player with great experience in playing multiple positions. The German midfielder played in the central position with Bayer Leverkusen before moving to Chelsea. Havertz is an engine similar to Martin Odegaard. However, Havertz’s consistency has remained a problem for Arsenal this season. Ethan Nwaneri, a teenage academy product, is also an option in the midfield position. The youngster has been making waves in Arsenal’s youth setup. Fabregas highly rates the youngster who will be a great addition to the squad.
Arsenal gets a huge boost with the return of Gabriel Jesus
During the injury crisis, Arsenal are given a significant boost with the return of Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian striker missed the opening games of the Premier League due to a groin injury. Jesus will be available for selection against Tottenham on the weekend. Jesus’s return gives a huge boost to Arsenal after the limited attacking options available to Mikel Arteta. Jesus’ experience and quality can be an important factor in breaking through the Tottenham defense. Mikel Arteta also has the flexibility to play Trossard or Havertz in midfield while Jesus leads the attack.
The North London Derby will be an important game for both the clubs to gain momentum. Arsenal will face Manchester City in their following fixture. The Gunners also have to prepare for the Champions League clashes against Atlanta and Paris Saint Germain. Tottenham are looking to grab three points after losing to Newcastle United in their latest Premier League fixture. Arsenal are looking to maintain their title charge against Liverpool and Manchester City. Tottenham are also facing an injury crisis with Richarlison and new signing Dominic Solanke in doubts for the North London Derby. This will be a big match for both teams to make a statement.
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