Arteta Awaits Medical Verdict on Two Key Arsenal Stars

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is waiting for medical staff to determine whether Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard will be available for Saturday’s Premier League clash against Everton at the Emirates Stadium.

The Gunners return to top-flight action following their midweek Champions League draw at Bayer Leverkusen, with both attacking players nursing injury concerns that could impact Arteta’s team selection.

Captain’s Knee Problem Lingers

Odegaard has been absent for the past four matches after aggravating a knee issue that initially occurred during Arsenal’s visit to Brentford last month. The Norway international briefly returned from the bench in the 4-1 North London Derby victory over Tottenham but has since been sidelined with the persistent problem.

When asked about the captain’s availability, Arteta remained uncertain. “Let’s see. We will have to speak to the doctors to see whether they are involved or not,” the Spanish coach told reporters.

Trossard’s Hip Concern

Trossard’s fitness remains equally doubtful after the Belgian winger limped off during the first half of Arsenal’s 2-1 FA Cup fifth round victory at Mansfield Town. Despite participating in training ahead of the Bayer Leverkusen fixture, the 30-year-old was unable to feature in Germany.

Explaining Trossard’s absence from the Champions League squad, Arteta said: “Yeah he felt something and if you’re not 100 per cent then you cannot play.”

The potential absence of both players would represent a significant blow to Arsenal’s attacking options during a crucial period of the season. Odegaard has been instrumental in the Gunners’ title charge, while Trossard has provided valuable versatility across the front line.

Busy Schedule Ahead

Arsenal face a demanding fixture list with the Everton encounter followed by Tuesday’s Champions League return leg against Bayer Leverkusen at the Emirates. The Premier League leaders then prepare for next Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against title rivals Manchester City at Wembley.

The timing of these injury concerns adds pressure to Arteta’s squad management, particularly with European qualification still to be secured and domestic silverware within reach.

Everton arrive in north London chasing European qualification themselves, making Saturday’s fixture a potentially challenging test for an Arsenal side that may be without two of their most creative players.

Arteta confirmed that Arsenal have no fresh injury concerns beyond the ongoing issues affecting Odegaard and Trossard, providing some relief ahead of the weekend fixture.