Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has offered positive news regarding the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz as the Gunners prepare for their Premier League match against Bournemouth this Saturday.
Arsenal, who sit third in the league with 17 points from seven games, are looking to maintain momentum after the international break. In contrast, Bournemouth is currently 13th with eight points, coming off a disappointing loss to Leicester City.
Concerns had arisen over Arsenal’s squad depth due to injury scares during international duty. Saka limped off during England’s defeat to Greece and missed the subsequent Nations League game against Finland. However, interim England boss Lee Carsley expressed optimism about Saka’s condition, stating, “He’s a positive person and I expect him to be fine.”
Havertz also missed Germany’s international fixtures due to a knee issue, prompting the German Football Federation to replace him with Jonathan Burkardt.
At his pre-match press conference, Arteta revealed both Saka and Havertz have a “good chance” of playing against Bournemouth. “It’s not a serious injury for Saka. He’s evolving really well,” Arteta noted, adding that the winger had been training positively. As for Havertz, Arteta said, “He has good communication with the national team manager. If he trains well today, he has a good chance to play tomorrow.”
The Gunners have also been monitoring Gabriel Martinelli, who returned from international duty with Brazil and was seen training with tape on his injury. Arteta indicated that Martinelli would assess his fitness but cautioned that they might need to decide whether to take a risk.
While there is optimism around Saka and Havertz, Arsenal will be without Martin Ødegaard for the clash, and defenders Ben White, Jurrien Timber, and Oleksandr Zinchenko are also expected to miss out. Arteta confirmed that Ødegaard’s return might be imminent next week, stating, “He needs to clear some markers… Next week will be crucial.”
Arsenal will look to secure all three points as they continue their quest for a first Premier League title since 2004.