Arteta Provides Arsenal Injury Update Ahead of Port Vale Carabao Cup Clash

Mikel Arteta delivers key Arsenal injury update before Port Vale clash, confirming Madueke sidelined as youngsters prepare to step in.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shared a detailed injury update as the Gunners prepare for their Carabao Cup third-round match against League One side Port Vale. With several first-team players sidelined, Arteta’s comments highlight the challenges and opportunities his squad faces ahead of Wednesday night’s tie.

One of the biggest concerns for Arsenal is the absence of winger Noni Madueke. The 23-year-old picked up a knee injury during Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Manchester City. After being substituted at halftime, Madueke underwent scans on Monday.

Arteta confirmed that Madueke will miss “a few weeks” but reassured fans that the setback is not long-term. He said:

“He felt something in the beginning of the match, and at half-time it was too sore. We hope it’s weeks rather than months.”

Other Arsenal Injury Concerns

Arsenal’s injury list extends beyond Madueke. Captain Martin Ødegaard is still recovering from a shoulder issue, while Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are managing knee problems. Defender Piero Hincapie also remains unavailable with a groin strain.

These injuries are forcing Arteta to consider significant rotation for the trip to Vale Park.

With senior stars missing, Arsenal’s youngsters could seize the spotlight. Fifteen-year-old Max Dowman may become the youngest starter in the club’s history, while academy prospects Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly are also expected to feature.

Meanwhile, summer signings Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga are likely to make their full debuts. Forward Gabriel Martinelli is also in line to start after impressing off the bench last week.

Arteta may field the following XI in a 4-3-3 setup:

Kepa; White, Mosquera, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Nwaneri, Norgaard, Merino; Dowman, Trossard, Martinelli

Port Vale vs Arsenal: Match Details

• Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
• Kick-off: 8:00 PM BST
• Venue: Vale Park
• Broadcast: Live on Sky Sports

Arteta’s injury update ahead of the Port Vale clash underscores Arsenal’s current challenges but also highlights the chance for young talents to step up. While injuries to key players like Madueke, Ødegaard, and Jesus create concerns, the Carabao Cup third-round tie could showcase the next generation of Gunners.

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