This morning, Arsenal fans received disheartening news confirmed by Sky Sports.
The fixtures scheduled for Sunday mark a pivotal moment in the ongoing season, with Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions squaring off against the league-leading Anfield side, while Arsenal plays host to Brentford. For Mikel Arteta’s squad, a win against Brentford combined with a draw between Liverpool and Manchester City could see Arsenal climb to the top of the table, riding on goal difference.
Arsenal’s recent dominant display against Sheffield United, where they netted six goals, significantly bolstered their goal difference to +45, surpassing Liverpool’s +39 and City’s +35. Such disparities in goal differences could carry significant weight as the season progresses.
However, Arsenal’s triumph at Bramall Lane was not without its potential setbacks, as both Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli were forced off the field early due to apparent injuries. Arteta, however, provided assurance that neither issue appears to be severe. “Bukayo wasn’t feeling well and wasn’t quite himself, so we decided to substitute him and bring Fabio in,” Arteta explained in an interview with Sky Sports (via Liverpool World). “As for Gabi, it’s just a minor cut. He got tackled and suffered a slight cut. We will monitor his condition.”
After their upcoming Champions League fixture against Porto, Arsenal will enjoy an extended break owing to Chelsea’s participation in the FA Cup. Their subsequent encounter against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium looms large, and Arteta will undoubtedly rely on all his key players performing at their peak to sustain their title ambitions.
In summary, the forthcoming fixtures represent a critical juncture in the season for Arsenal, as they seek to capitalize on any opportunities to solidify their position at the summit of the table and draw closer to the title race.
