• News

Mikel Arteta confirms key Arsenal star is a doubt for Man City clash

Mikel Arteta at Arsenal
© Ace Football
Advertisement

The Gunners head to the Etihad Stadium knowing only a victory will be enough to regain control of the Premier League title race.

Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka is a doubt for Wednesday’s trip to Manchester City, according to manager Mikel Arteta.

The 30-year-old Switzerland international missed last Friday’s 3-3 home draw against Southampton through an illness, and is still recovering.

“Xhaka is hopefully able to train today, still a doubt,” Arteta said at a pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

“The rest are ok.”

Fabio Vieira replaced Xhaka in central midfield for the Southampton game last week. Jorginho is another option Arteta may pick to partner Thomas Partey.

Saliba is still unavailable

One player who will certainly miss the Etihad trip is William Saliba. The Arsenal defender has been out of action for the last five weeks with a back injury.

On Saliba, Arteta added: “There’s not been any real improvement, unfortunately for him. We are still waiting, we are still hopeful but obviously, it’s another week that has gone by and he hasn’t been able to train with the team.”

Long-term absentees Mohamed Elneny and Takehiro Tomiyasu will also remain sidelined.

x