Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a hugely positive fitness update ahead of the new season, confirming that he expects to have a near fully-fit squad available for Sunday’s massive Premier League opening match against Manchester United.
The most encouraging news concerns winger Leandro Trossard. The Belgian international limped off with a groin “niggle” just 17 minutes into the pre-season friendly against Tottenham, sparking concerns about his availability. However, Arteta has revealed the issue is not serious. “I think he’s going to be [okay] in a few days,” the manager said. “He should be fine.”
The squad has also been significantly boosted by the return of three key defenders to full first-team training in recent days. Gabriel Magalhães, Jurrien Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori have all recovered from their respective fitness issues and are now back in contention for selection.
This wave of positive news means the only first-team player guaranteed to be sidelined for the trip to Old Trafford is striker Gabriel Jesus, who is continuing his long-term recovery from the ACL injury he suffered seven months ago.
The manager was visibly delighted with the depth and versatility at his disposal now that the majority of his players are returning. “In every position now, we have a different quality, a lot of players that can play in various positions as well with a lot of versatility,” Arteta beamed.
He added that this depth gives him a major tactical advantage heading into the new season. “We can change the puzzle and make it very difficult for the opposition,” he explained.
After a pre-season that was disrupted by a number of minor injuries, Arsenal appear to be getting healthy at the perfect time. With a near full-strength squad to choose from, Mikel Arteta’s side will travel to Manchester full of confidence for their first major test of the 2025–26 campaign