Mikel Arteta’s side, without a win in their last three Premier League games, were beaten 1-0 at Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Another defeat at a relatively in-form Chelsea would prove another major setback in the title race, while a win would be a statement of intent.
A huge game for the club, Arteta will be boosted by the return of Martin Odegaard after his cameo against Inter.
Still, as has seemingly been the case all season, injury problems remain.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest Arsenal injuries...
Kai Havertz was left bloodied on Wednesday
Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Kai Havertz
Kai Havertz was left bloodied after a clash of heads with Inter's Yann Bisseck on Wednesday evening.
The German made way for the returning Odegaard towards the closing stages of the game, and Arteta said afterwards: “Kai Havertz had a big cut and hopefully he will be OK for the weekend."
Havertz’ has been an almost ever-present for the Gunners this season, scoring seven goals in 15 appearances in all competitions while both leading the line and also covering captain Odegaard’s absence in a deeper role.
Potential return date: Unknown
Declan Rice has not trained since the defeat at Newcastle
Getty Images
Declan Rice
Arsenal were dealt a blow before their trip to Inter. Key midfielder Declan Rice did not travel as a result of a foot injury sustained in the defeat at Newcastle.
At this stage, it is uncertain as to whether or not Rice can play against Chelsea.
“Declan unfortunately has picked up an injury against Newcastle,” said Arteta on Tuesday.
“He was able to finish the game but he wasn’t feeling good in the last few days so we have to assess him on Thursday to understand whether he will be fit or not for the weekend.”
Potential return date: Unknown
Takehiro Tomiyasu has featured for only six minutes this season after suffering a setback in his recovery from a knee injury.
Arteta has confirmed the Japan international is not expected back before the international break.
Potential return date: November/December 2024
Kieran Tierney
Arsenal are blessed with options at left-back, so it remains to be seen just how much of a role Kieran Tierney plays this season.
Still, Arteta is confident the Scotland international will soon return to team training.
"I think he's quite close," said Arteta. "He's looking really good. I think he's over the period where he was still struggling, so he looks really sharp out there.
“He hasn't trained with the team yet but hopefully, he can do that in the next week or two."
Potential return date: Unknown
0 Comments