Mikel Arteta Provides Shock Arsenal Team News Ahead of Wolves Clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed a mix of unexpected injuries and returns ahead of their Saturday clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux. The Gunners were able to welcome back William Saliba earlier than expected but were forced to leave their captain Martin Ødegaard out due to illness.

Early Return for Saliba, Ødegaard Misses Out Due to Illness

Despite suffering a muscle injury during Arsenal’s north London derby victory in mid-January, William Saliba made a surprise recovery and was named in the squad to face Wolves. The French centre-back was initially not expected to feature until the Manchester City match next week. His return to action is a massive boost for Arsenal’s defense as they look to secure important points.

Arteta expressed his delight at having Saliba back:

“Very good to have [Saliba and Myles Lewis-Skelly] back, they missed the last game, and they’re happy to help us.”

The 23-year-old was joined in the defense by young Myles Lewis-Skelly, who also overcame a knock to make the squad.

Ødegaard’s Absence and Ethan Nwaneri’s Inclusion

While Saliba made an unexpected return, Arteta had to confirm that Martin Ødegaard would miss the Wolves game due to illness. Ødegaard had been instrumental in Arsenal’s 3-0 Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb earlier in the week, scoring the final goal in stoppage time.

Arteta explained Ødegaard’s absence:

“Martin [Ødegaard] was ill this morning, we had to send him back, he was nowhere near fit to play.”

In Ødegaard’s place, Arsenal’s 17-year-old sensation Ethan Nwaneri was handed a start. Arteta expressed trust in the young talent:

“He’s a player who is giving us a lot in recent weeks. We trust him.”

Will Saliba’s Return Propel Arsenal to Victory?

With Saliba back in action and Gabriel leading the team as captain in Ødegaard’s absence, Arsenal will look to extend their title challenge with a positive result against Wolves. Can Ethan Nwaneri step up in the midfield, and will Saliba’s presence strengthen the defense as they look to regain their rhythm?

Share Your Thoughts

How do you think Arsenal will perform without Ødegaard against Wolves? Do you trust Ethan Nwaneri to deliver for the Gunners? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!