Arteta Provides Injury Updates on Saliba, Hincapie, and Trossard

Mikel Arteta has provided an injury update ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea. This match will take place on January 14, and several key players will be sidelined.

Injury Status of Key Players

Arteta discussed the fitness of Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori, both of whom were absent during the recent FA Cup victory over Portsmouth. He stated, “Those two are not available yet.”

While Hincapie’s recovery timeline remains unclear, Arteta did mention that Calafiori is dealing with a muscle injury. He noted, “He’s progressing, but we don’t know. I think it will matter for a few weeks probably.”

Additional Injury Concerns

The manager confirmed that William Saliba and Leandro Trossard are also doubts for the upcoming match. Both players missed the FA Cup win due to their own injury setbacks.

Arteta also provided updates on Max Dowman and Cristhian Mosquera, who have been recovering from long-term injuries. “(Max) is very similar to Mosquera. Very similar injuries, very similar time frames,” he explained. Although both players are improving, they have yet to resume training and are a few weeks away from returning to action.

Possible Return of Kai Havertz

There is some positive news for Arsenal fans, as Kai Havertz, a former Chelsea striker, could make an appearance. Havertz recently returned from an injury and participated in the last match against Portsmouth.

Mikel Arteta praised Havertz’s comeback, saying, “Obviously we missed him a lot… he looks really fit, really confident.” The coach noted the importance of managing Havertz’s minutes as he builds his fitness. “He had a good block of 20-25 minutes the other day,” Arteta added.

Conclusion

• Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori remain unavailable for selection.
• William Saliba and Leandro Trossard are doubtful for the match.
• Max Dowman and Cristhian Mosquera are progressing but not yet training.
• Kai Havertz might be available after recent recovery.

As Arsenal prepares to face Chelsea, the fitness of key players will play a crucial role. Arteta’s insights provide clarity on the current state of the squad.