RAYA DOUBTFUL FOR LEICESTER
Mikel Arteta has revealed that David Raya remains a doubt for Arsenal’s Premier League match against Leicester City on Saturday. The goalkeeper missed Arsenal’s recent Carabao Cup victory over Bolton due to a thigh injury, and his availability for the weekend is still uncertain.
Raya was absent from the squad during the Gunners’ third-round cup tie at the Emirates Stadium, a game in which Arsenal triumphed over Bolton. With backup goalkeeper Neto cup-tied, Arteta was forced to turn to 16-year-old Jack Porter, who made history as the youngest player ever to start a game for Arsenal. Now, as Arsenal gears up for their league encounter with Leicester, Arteta has stated that the club will make a final decision on Raya’s fitness closer to match day.
“We have to wait another 24 hours,” Arteta said during his pre-match press conference on Friday. “We have to wait 24 hours to see if it is looking good or not.” Arteta was also asked if Raya would be rested to avoid any risk ahead of Arsenal’s midweek Champions League clash against PSG. However, the manager dismissed that notion, emphasizing that the decision was solely based on the player’s fitness. “It’s not about a risk,” he clarified, “it’s about a player being fit and available or not. When we have that clarity for Leicester, which is the main thing we’re thinking about at the moment, we will make that decision tomorrow.”
If Raya is deemed unfit, Arsenal’s summer signing Neto is poised to make his debut. The goalkeeper joined Arsenal on loan from Bournemouth during the final day of the transfer window, primarily to serve as cover for Raya. The potential debut of Neto adds an element of intrigue to the fixture, as the Gunners look to secure crucial points against Leicester.
In more positive news for Arsenal, Jurrien Timber returned to training on Friday and is expected to be in contention for selection against Leicester. Arteta welcomed Timber’s return, viewing it as a significant boost for the squad. “Jurrien was able to take part in training today, that’s good news, so he’ll be available in the squad,” Arteta confirmed. Additionally, Ben White could also be in the mix for selection. The defender was sidelined for the starting lineup against Manchester City due to fitness concerns but made a substitute appearance in the second half. White was left out entirely during the midweek clash against Bolton, yet Arteta expressed hope for his inclusion this weekend, stating, “Hopefully Ben too.”
As Arsenal prepares for a busy schedule, including the Champions League test against PSG, the team’s depth and adaptability will be crucial. Arteta’s handling of Raya’s situation and the potential debut of Neto underscores the balancing act between preserving player fitness and fielding a competitive squad. The upcoming match against Leicester will serve as a litmus test for the Gunners’ resilience as they navigate this critical period of the season.