Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has announced that the team’s defensive options will continue to be limited for Thursday’s crucial match against Liverpool, as both Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori remain sidelined. Mosquera suffered an ankle injury back in December, while Calafiori is recovering from a significant injury sustained prior to the Brighton match. Despite their absence, Arteta expressed hope for their return, stating they are nearing the final stages of rehabilitation.
“I’m optimistic about their progress,” Arteta said during his pre-match press conference. “If everything goes well, they could be back soon.”
The positive news doesn’t end there; Arteta provided an encouraging update on Kai Havertz, who has been out since the season opener against Manchester United due to a knee injury. Havertz has resumed training with the first team and is approaching match fitness after five months off.
“He’s been out for a long time for two different reasons but trained this morning,” Arteta confirmed. “We’re monitoring his load, and we hope to have him available in the coming games.”
Arsenal heads into the match against Liverpool leading the Premier League table by 14 points, aiming to maintain their strong position in hopes of clinching the title after finishing as runners-up for the past three seasons. The Gunners will be seeking revenge against Liverpool, one of only two teams to have defeated them this season, with August’s encounter at Anfield highlighting their defensive vulnerabilities when Dominik Szoboszlai scored a stunning free-kick.
Arteta emphasized the importance of the upcoming game, stating, “We want to win every game, and tomorrow’s match is our priority. We know what we need to do to beat them, and we need to show it on the pitch.”
Arsenal’s last match saw them secure a 3-2 victory over Bournemouth, with Declan Rice scoring twice. Rice has been an instrumental part of a midfield trio that also includes captain Martin Odegaard and new signing Martin Zubimendi. When asked about the chemistry among the three players, who were all born within two months of each other, Arteta humorously acknowledged the connection, reflecting on their effective on-field synergy.
He remarked, “It’s a great point, and we definitely saw potential in that combination before bringing them together, so it’s rewarding to see them click as we envisioned.”
In light of recent managerial changes across the league, Arteta also commented on the sacking of Ruben Amorim from Manchester United, noting the critical nature of results in the high-stakes world of football management. “It’s always sad to see a colleague lose his job. Support from staff and players is vital, but ultimately, results dictate your future in this profession.”
As Arsenal prepares for this pivotal match against Liverpool, the team’s strong form and potential reinforcements could bode well for their title aspirations this season.