Arteta's Update on Saka, Partey, and Arsenal's Confidence

 Arteta's Update on Saka, Partey, and Arsenal's Confidence

Mikel Arteta, Head coach of Arsenal reacts during the UEFA Champions League match between RC Lens and Arsenal FC at Stade Bollaert-Delelis on October 03, 2023 in Lens, France. (Image-Getty)

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta provided an update on forward Bukayo Saka's injury status, indicating that Saka remains in contention to face Premier League leaders Manchester City, despite his recent injury during the 2-1 loss to RC Lens in the Champions League.

Saka, who holds the impressive record of playing in each of Arsenal's last 87 league games, a club record streak for consecutive matches in the competition, may have the opportunity to extend that run. Arteta expressed optimism, saying, "Well, he is in contention. Let's see how he progresses from here to Sunday. He had to leave the pitch, that's never good news but let's see how he recovers."

Despite his injury scare, Saka was included in England's squad for an upcoming friendly against Australia and a Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy. Arteta mentioned that he has been in contact with England manager Gareth Southgate but emphasized that Southgate will ultimately make the best decision for the national team.

Arteta also provided an update on midfielder Thomas Partey, who had been sidelined for the last six games due to a groin injury. Partey was on the bench for the recent match against Lens and is making good progress. Arteta stated, "Well, he's ahead of schedule that's for sure. We wanted to have him in the squad if we needed him, the way the game panned out we had other necessities and we didn't use him. He will be in the squad for Sunday."

Reflecting on Arsenal's rivalry with Manchester City last season, where they were City's primary challengers for the league title, Arteta highlighted the significance of winning the Community Shield against City at the start of this campaign. He believes that victory instilled confidence and belief in Arsenal, making them well-prepared for their upcoming clash with City.

Arsenal currently occupies the third position in the Premier League standings, trailing league leaders City by just one point. Both teams have had promising starts to the season, and Arteta acknowledged the importance of their earlier Community Shield triumph, stating, "To win a title against Manchester City is always something you have to value. The way we did it as well gives us confidence and belief that we can beat them."

It's worth noting that City recently suffered a 2-1 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers in their most recent league game. Arsenal will be looking to capitalize on any vulnerabilities in their opponent's form when they face City in the upcoming fixture.