Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided explanations for the absence of Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli from the starting lineup for their match against Brighton. Odegaard is reportedly struggling with illness while Martinelli suffered a minor issue during the week. The Gunners will also be without suspended defender Jurrien Timber and injured winger Bukayo Saka, who could be out for two months.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the absence of Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli from the starting lineup for the team's Premier League match against Brighton on Saturday, October 1.
Background:
Martin Odegaard has been a key player for Arsenal since joining the club on loan from Real Madrid in January 2021. He made the move permanent in August 2021 for a reported fee of £30 million. The attacking midfielder has been a regular starter for the Gunners this season, scoring three goals in seven appearances.
Gabriel Martinelli has also been an important player for Arsenal since breaking into the first team in 2019. The Brazilian forward has scored 18 goals in 79 appearances for the club. He has been used in a variety of positions, including on the wing and as a second striker.
Arteta's Explanation:
Arteta revealed the reasons for Odegaard and Martinelli's absence in his pre-match press conference. He said:
Other Arsenal Absentees:
Arsenal will also be without suspended defender Jurrien Timber and injured winger Bukayo Saka for the Brighton match. Timber was sent off in Arsenal's 3-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, while Saka has been ruled out for up to two months with an ankle injury.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. When will Martin Odegaard return to the Arsenal team? A: Arteta did not provide a specific timeframe for Odegaard's return, but he is hopeful it will be soon.
2. What is the nature of Gabriel Martinelli's injury? A: Arteta did not disclose the specific nature of Martinelli's injury, but he said it is minor and that he is available for selection.
3. Who will replace Odegaard and Martinelli in the starting lineup? A: Arteta did not specify who will start in place of Odegaard and Martinelli, but Emile Smith Rowe, Fabio Vieira, and Marquinhos are among the options.
4. How long will Jurrien Timber be suspended for? A: Timber will serve a one-match suspension for his red card against Tottenham.
5. When is Bukayo Saka expected to return from injury? A: Arteta said that Saka could be out for up to two months, which means he could potentially miss Arsenal's next eight Premier League matches.
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