Arsenal Guaranteed to Be Without Five Players for Leicester Clash

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Mikel Arteta is set to be without several key players when Arsenal take on Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday.

Arsenal’s injury crisis continues as they gear up for their upcoming clash against Leicester City. Manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that five key players will be unavailable for the match, adding to the team’s challenges as they strive for a top-four finish in the Premier League.

Players Unavailable for the Match

Tomiyasu (knee injury), Saka (hamstring injury), Jesus (knee injury), Havertz (hamstring injury), Martinelli (hamstring injury)

Kai Havertz:

The German forward picked up a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s training camp in Dubai and requires surgery, ruling him out for the rest of the season.

Gabriel Jesus:

The Brazilian striker has been out with a long-term injury and will not be available for the Leicester match.

Bukayo Saka:

The young winger has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since December and is not expected to return until next month.

Gabriel Martinelli:

The forward injured his hamstring against Newcastle earlier this month and remains unavailable.

Takehiro Tomiyasu:

The versatile defender is also out with a long-term injury.

Ben White’s Return

On a positive note, Ben White, who has been out since November following knee surgery, is set to make his return to the squad. Arteta confirmed that White has been training regularly and will be available for selection, although his load will be managed carefully. His return is a significant boost for Arsenal, who have missed his presence at right-back.

With several key players missing, Arteta will have to rely on the depth of his squad. Jurrien Timber, who has done a commendable job at right-back in White’s absence, is expected to start against Leicester. However, White may make an appearance as a second-half substitute.

The absence of Havertz, Jesus, Saka, Martinelli, and Tomiyasu will undoubtedly be felt, but Arteta remains optimistic about his team’s chances. The return of Ben White provides a much-needed boost and adds some much-needed experience and stability to the squad.