Mikel Arteta has provided a significant update on the fitness of a crucial attacking player, indicating his return to the squad is imminent. The manager stated the player’s comeback is now a matter of “days, not weeks,” following an extended absence due to a knee operation.
The forward, who finished as the club’s leading league scorer last campaign despite his own injury troubles, has been a notable miss. Arteta emphasized the unique qualities he brings, suggesting his presence elevates the team’s offensive capabilities to a new level. The player was recently involved in first-team training, just missing selection for a recent cup fixture.
While this weekend’s league match may arrive slightly too soon for a starting role, his return will provide a timely boost to the attacking options. It comes as the squad manages other fitness concerns, including a knee issue for another forward and a fresh defensive injury sustained in the last outing.
The team’s defensive personnel continues to be shuffled, with a central defensive partnership expected to make it the eighth different pairing used this season. There is, however, optimism that a key defender could re-enter the frame early in the new year as he progresses in his rehabilitation.
Despite these challenges, the squad has shown notable discipline this season. Currently sitting atop the league table, they also lead the fair play standings, having received no red cards—a stark contrast to the previous campaign’s tally. Arteta referenced a frustrating match from earlier in the season against the same upcoming opponent, which was marred by a contentious dismissal, expressing his desire for a different outcome this time around.