Arteta affirms that key Arsenal players will be absent for the initial leg of the Champions League quarter-final.

 

Mikel Arteta has shared the news that Bukayo Saka won’t be joining Arsenal for their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP. 

The talented winger pulled out of national team duty with England during the international break and also missed the FA Cup match against Southampton. Unfortunately, he won’t be making the trip to Portugal, and he’ll be joined by defender Jurrien Timber, who is still sidelined due to injury.

“They haven’t traveled, as they’re just not ready yet,” Arteta mentioned ahead of the match. 

“Fingers crossed they’ll be good to go by the weekend, which would be a huge lift for us, especially with so many key players out recently. It’s something we really need to turn around quickly.”

On a brighter note, Arteta confirmed that Gabriel, Leandro Trossard, and Declan Rice are all set to participate, giving fans something to look forward to! However, it seems Ebere Eze and Piero Hincapie are likely to miss out once again.