Arsenal fans have been on edge as the club faces a series of injury setbacks just ahead of their highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. The Gunners’ preparations were first thrown into disarray during the international break when news emerged that captain Martin Odegaard had suffered an injury while representing Norway. Odegaard, who went down after a tough challenge from an Austrian player, is now expected to be sidelined for a minimum of three weeks.
Adding to Arsenal’s injury woes, Declan Rice was also the center of controversy after receiving a red card in his last Premier League outing. The England midfielder expressed his frustration at the inconsistency of refereeing decisions, compounding Arsenal’s selection issues.
However, the biggest concern for Arsenal fans lies in the status of Brazilian striker Gabriel Jesus. Jesus, who has missed the club’s last two Premier League matches due to a groin injury, was initially hopeful to make a return in time for the clash against Spurs. With Odegaard ruled out and Kai Havertz potentially shifting to midfield to fill the Norwegian’s void, Arsenal is in desperate need of attacking options, making Jesus’ availability even more crucial.
Fortunately, renowned Arsenal journalist Charles Watts has provided an important update on the Brazilian’s condition ahead of the derby. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Watts shared what he has been told about Jesus’ chances of featuring against Tottenham.
Charles Watts Provides Positive Update on Gabriel Jesus’ Injury Recovery
Watts revealed that while it’s still uncertain whether Jesus will be fully fit to start, there’s hope that the striker could play some part in the game. “I was speaking to someone earlier this week, and from what I’ve been told, Jesus hasn’t been completely ruled out of the weekend match. There’s definitely hope that he could be involved in some capacity,” Watts explained.
However, Watts also expressed caution, noting that it might be too soon for Jesus to start. “I’d be surprised if he comes straight in and starts, especially given the uncertainty around how much he’s been able to train. It’s unclear if he’s even started full training yet. But the word is that there’s still a chance he could be available.”
With Jesus’ return still in the balance, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces some big decisions ahead of the match against Spurs, especially with several key players potentially unavailable.
Arsenal’s Potential Lineup Against Tottenham
With Martin Odegaard out, Declan Rice suspended, and Gabriel Jesus not guaranteed to feature, Arteta will need to get creative with his squad selection for the North London derby. One possibility is seeing Kai Havertz drop into midfield to fill the gap left by Odegaard. Havertz, who joined Arsenal from Chelsea in the summer, has been tipped to play multiple roles this season, and this could be his opportunity to prove his versatility.
On the attacking front, Bukayo Saka remains a guaranteed starter on the right wing, while Leandro Trossard, who has been in excellent form so far this season, is likely to feature on the left. However, Arteta could also consider deploying Trossard in a false 9 role if Jesus is deemed unfit to start. Gabriel Martinelli, who is equally comfortable on the left flank, could take up that position if Trossard is used centrally.
Another intriguing option could see Raheem Sterling filling in as a number 9. While primarily a winger, Sterling has been suggested as a potential solution for Arsenal’s forward line, especially with the team’s current injury situation. Though unconventional, it’s a tactical shift that Arteta may consider.
In the heart of midfield, Jorginho, who got some valuable playing time during Italy’s international fixtures, is likely to replace Declan Rice as the holding midfielder. Jorginho’s experience and composure on the ball will be crucial in maintaining control against a high-energy Tottenham side.
Arteta’s Dilemma and Arsenal’s Quest for Victory
Mikel Arteta faces a tricky balancing act ahead of the North London derby. With key players like Odegaard and Rice unavailable and Jesus still recovering, Arsenal’s depth will be tested in one of their most important fixtures of the season. Arteta’s tactical flexibility and ability to adapt will be crucial as Arsenal looks to continue their strong start to the Premier League campaign and secure a crucial win over their fierce rivals Tottenham.
The fitness updates on Gabriel Jesus are encouraging, but even if he can only feature as a substitute, his presence could provide a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s attack. For now, Arsenal fans will eagerly await the final team news, hoping that the Brazilian striker can make a timely return and help fire the Gunners to victory in the North London derby.
