Arsenal face a significant logistical challenge this summer as 10 first-team players are confirmed to miss the start of pre-season training due to their ongoing participation in the World Cup. According to reports, these players remain in contention for the tournament’s final stages, forcing manager Mikel Arteta to rely on a core group of non-international or eliminated players to build momentum before the domestic campaign.
Which Arsenal players are missing the start of pre-season?
Ten Arsenal players are slated to miss the opening of pre-season preparations following their progression to the quarter-finals of the World Cup. This group includes William Saliba (France), Bukayo Saka, Eberechi Eze, Declan Rice, and Noni Madueke (England), along with Mikel Merino, David Raya, and Martin Zubimendi (Spain). Additionally, Martin Odegaard (Norway) and Leandro Trossard (Belgium) are confirmed to be involved in the final eight.
How does the World Cup schedule impact Arsenal’s training timeline?
The tournament schedule creates a tight turnaround for players returning to North London. France plays their quarter-final on July 9th, but even if eliminated, Saliba would not return to the club until at least July 31st. The remaining nine Arsenal internationals are scheduled for quarter-final matches on July 10th and 11th. Since Arsenal’s pre-season schedule includes friendly matches beginning in early August, these players will have minimal time to integrate back into team training sessions.
Who is available for Mikel Arteta’s early pre-season squad?
While the international contingent remains away, Mikel Arteta will work with a squad of players who were either not called up or eliminated early from the tournament. Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes, who were knocked out with Brazil, are expected to be available for the duration of the pre-season. The current available roster includes:
- Goalkeepers: Kepa Arrizabalaga, Tommy Setford
- Defenders: Cristhian Mosquera, Ben White, Piero Hincapie, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori
- Midfielders: Myles Lewis-Skelly, Christian Norgaard, Fabio Vieira, Ethan Nwaneri
- Forwards: Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Viktor Gyokeres, Reiss Nelson, Kai Havertz
Will the tournament schedule force player fatigue?
The progression of these players into the semi-finals and potentially the final means that at least two Arsenal representatives will remain at the World Cup until the tournament concludes. With Spain facing Belgium and Norway set to meet England, the club is guaranteed to have stars involved until the final weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Arsenal players return from the World Cup?
Players are expected to return following a mandatory three-week break after their nation is eliminated or the tournament ends. Most will return to training in late July or early August.
Why are some players missing the start of pre-season?
Ten players reached the World Cup quarter-finals. Due to tournament scheduling and mandatory rest periods, they cannot join the initial training sessions starting in early July.
Will the injured players be ready for the season opener?
Staff are assessing players like William Saliba individually. While the three-week rest is standard, injury concerns may dictate a slower, more cautious return-to-play protocol.
How do you think the absence of these 10 stars will impact Arsenal’s early-season form? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates on the Gunners’ pre-season progress.
