Mikel Arteta Confirms Three Arsenal Absentees for Inter Milan Clash

Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal injuries ahead of Champions League trip to Inter Milan at the San Siro

Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal injuries that will rule three players out of the club’s crucial Champions League clash against Inter Milan. Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the Arsenal manager admitted the absences are a setback but insisted the squad remains prepared for the challenge at the San Siro.

The Gunners travel to Italy knowing a positive result would strengthen their grip on automatic qualification from the group stage.

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Arteta confirmed that Piero Hincapié, Riccardo Calafiori, and Max Dowman will all miss Tuesday night’s fixture.

• Hincapié continues to struggle with a thigh issue and has not trained in recent sessions
• Calafiori remains sidelined as he recovers from a knee problem
• Dowman, one of Arsenal’s most exciting academy prospects, is nursing an ankle injury

The trio will stay in London as Arsenal manage their recoveries carefully.

Arteta confident despite defensive setbacks

While the injuries reduce Arsenal’s defensive options, Arteta stressed that contingency plans are already in place.

“These are unfortunate setbacks, but we prepare for these situations,” Arteta said.
“Inter are one of the best teams in Europe, but we know how we want to approach the game.”

The Arsenal boss highlighted the squad’s adaptability and belief, which has underpinned their strong European campaign so far.

There was positive news alongside the injury update. Kai Havertz and Christian Mosquera have both returned to full fitness and are available for selection after recent layoffs.

Arteta also confirmed that Bukayo Saka trained fully, easing concerns after earlier fitness doubts. His availability would be a major boost against Inter’s aggressive defensive structure.

Arsenal arrive in Milan unbeaten in the Champions League group stage, with qualification firmly in their hands. Inter Milan boast an imposing home record and a deep, experienced squad, making the contest one of Arsenal’s toughest European tests this season.

More than 4,000 Arsenal supporters are expected to be inside the San Siro, creating a hostile but electrifying atmosphere.

With Hincapié and Calafiori unavailable, Arsenal’s back line is likely to feature William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Jurrien Timber, with Arteta potentially tweaking his system for added protection.

The manager will rely on organisation, intensity, and midfield control to limit Inter’s attacking threats.

Gabriel Jesus outlines Arsenal mindset

Forward Gabriel Jesus echoed his manager’s confidence, praising Inter’s quality while insisting Arsenal must remain focused and aggressive.

The Brazilian stressed that maintaining composure and belief will be key if Arsenal are to secure a statement result in Italy.

While injuries complicate Arteta’s selection, Arsenal’s depth, form, and confidence suggest they remain well equipped for a defining European night.

A positive result in Milan would underline Arsenal’s growing status among Europe’s elite — even in the face of adversity.

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