Arsenal is preparing for a tough Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Newcastle, but the team is dealing with several injuries and a recent virus outbreak among key players.
Mikel Arteta will be forced to manage a depleted squad as the Gunners aim to advance in the competition.
Injuries and Illness Hit the Arsenal Squad Hard
Arsenal’s first-team squad was hit hard with injuries and illness ahead of the match.
Arteta revealed that only eight first-team players were available for training on Monday due to these issues.
Key players like Kai Havertz and Martin Ødegaard are both doubtful due to illness, while 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who impressed against Brighton, will be sidelined for the rest of the month due to injury.
Missing Stars: Saka, White, Sterling, and Tomiyasu Out
The absence of several stars is making it even more challenging for Arteta.
Bukayo Saka, Ben White, Raheem Sterling, and Takehiro Tomiyasu will all miss the game due to ongoing injury problems.
This creates a huge selection headache for Arteta, who will also need to consider Sunday’s upcoming FA Cup tie against Manchester United when making his decisions.
Young Talent Could Feature in the Starting Line-Up
With the squad stretched thin, Arteta might be forced to hand a first-team opportunity to young talent, including 15-year-old Max Dowman.
The midfielder has been training with the first team and could be in line for a spot on the bench, making this a potentially huge moment for the teenager.
Possible Line-Up for the Carabao Cup Semi-Final Against Newcastle
Despite the challenges, Arteta will likely stick with experienced players in key positions.
David Raya is expected to start in goal after being brought back for the quarter-final match against Crystal Palace.
Jurrien Timber, returning from suspension, will likely start alongside William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães in defense.
Midfield and Attack: A Strong Core Despite Absences
In midfield, Jorginho, who has been a reliable figure for Arteta, will likely continue in his defensive role, while Declan Rice and Mikel Merino could provide stability and strength further up the pitch.
The absence of Ødegaard and Havertz might mean an opportunity for others to step up.
With Saka and Nwaneri unavailable, Arteta may opt for Gabriel Martinelli on the right wing, Gabriel Jesus as the central striker, and Leandro Trossard on the left flank.
These changes are necessary to navigate the squad’s current injury crisis.
Exciting Opportunities for Youngsters Like Max Dowman
The Newcastle match could present a rare chance for 15-year-old Max Dowman to make his debut for the first team, either as a substitute or on the bench.
Dowman has been a standout in the youth leagues and even made history earlier this season by becoming the youngest-ever player to feature for Arsenal’s Under-21 side.
Mail Sport’s Predicted Line-Up for Arsenal Against Newcastle
With all the challenges, here is how we expect Arsenal to line up for the Carabao Cup semi-final against Newcastle:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis-Skelly; Merino, Jorginho, Rice; Martinelli, Jesus, Trossard.
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