Arsenal set for major setback as star forward a doubt for next UCL game

The Gunners have had a bit of good and bad news ahead of their final Group B game in the Champions League.

Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is a doubt to face PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The 22-year-old Brazilian missed the training session on Monday because of an illness. He was joined by Bukayo Saka, who suffered a knock on his foot. Saka, though, is still expected to join the team.

That said, as Arsenal are through to the last-16 as Group B winners already, the pair’s availability is not essential on Tuesday. Manager Mikel Arteta may instead opt to play some reserves to give some of his regulars a rest.

Smith Rowe is back in training

There was one welcoming sight, however, as Emile Smith Rowe returned to group training.

A knee injury has kept Smith Rowe sidelined since the end of October. The 23-year-old has missed nine games straight, but it’s not certain yet if he will join the squad for Tuesday’s trip to the Netherlands.

According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal will decide whether to include Smith Rowe in the squad or not after Monday’s training session.

The Hale End product has made eight appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season. He has made the startling line-up twice and contributed one assist.

The Gunners are also missing Thomas Partey, Fabio Vieira, Jurrien Timber, and Takehiro Tomiyasu.

No Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal training this morning due to illness. Unlikely to travel to Eindhoven later.

No Bukayo Saka due to knock on foot, but he is likely to travel.

Emile Smith Rowe back training with group. Decision on whether he travels to be taken post session.

— Simon Collings (@sr_collings) December 11, 2023