Arsenal completed two signings in the January transfer window and both of them were brought in to strengthen the defense.
When Arteta made the decision to bring in these players it would have been evident that he won’t be able to call on the duo immediately.
Mari doesn’t have any injury concerns but hasn’t had any game time since the end of December following the conclusion of the Brazilian season. So he might need some time before getting match fit.
Cedric on the other hand picked up an injury one week before his move to the North London club. Southampton revealed that the defender will be out for 3 weeks, which will put him on schedule to return after the winter break.
When queried about the progress of the defensive duo, Arteta sounded optimistic about their availability. Speaking to Arsenal’s official website, he said:
“With Pablo (I am optimistic) a little bit more than Cedric, but we have to go step by step. He is a new player and I am sure he is very excited and wants to prove everything in three days, so we have to manage him wisely.”
It is doubtful whether they can make it to the Newcastle game, but Arteta will be hoping that both the players will be fit in time for the Europa League game against Olympiacos. It is one sure shot way of getting into the Champions League so the team will have to put up a strong showing.
Having players such as Cedric and Mari will help solidify Arsenal’s defense. The Gunners defense has been all over the place since the start of the season, and that would have been Arteta’s main priority while taking charge.
And on the basis of what we have seen so far, the team is getting better at being organized and keeping the opposition attack at bay. The training camp in Dubai will be a nice break for the entire squad as they can relax and enjoy some of the warm weather.
Fans will be hoping that when they come back, they can start firing and finish the season on a strong note. Both Mari and Cedric will want to play a part in helping the team achieve that.
