Now that the transfer window is done and dusted, it is time to focus on the matches that are lined-up for Arsenal. The next match that the team has is in the Premier League against the defending champions Manchester City.
Ahead of the game, manager Unai Emery gave an update about the team news. He was speaking at the pre-match press conference and was quoted by Arsenal’s official website talking about the injuries that the squad faces. This is what he had to say:
Emery on Koscielny – “He trained today well, we are positive with him.”
On Maitland-Niles – “Today he didn’t train, we look tomorrow.”
On Mkhitaryan – “He started to train with us today and he’s training normally. He is with us now”
The fact that the captain and Mkhitaryan are back in the fold is great news for the fans as well as the club. The North London club are a little light on players as a result of the injuries that have occurred.
Getting players as important as these two will be a big boost for the fortunes of the team. The race for the top four is becoming closer with every passing week. Due to the heavy defeat suffered by Chelsea against Bournemouth, the Gunners are back into the top four but they are level on points with their London rivals.
And the match against City is going to be crucial in the way the season is going to shape up to be. As for City, this match is very important as well as they try and keep pace with Liverpool who are leading the league at the moment.
In the same press conference, Emery was also asked whether new signing Denis Suarez would be in contention for a starting place and this is what the manager had to say:
“I am thinking about all the players, If he starts, I have confidence in him.”
Given that the signing was only announced on Thursday, it will be a little surprising if the midfielder did start the game on Sunday. He was brought in to help the team and if the manager feels that he can do the job then he will start it seems.
