Arsenal Starting XI vs Slavia Prague: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup | OneFootball

Injury Crisis Shadows Arsenal in Prague

There are nights in Europe when resilience matters as much as reputation. For Arsenal, tonight in Prague represents one of those supreme tests. Eight first team players have been ruled out for the Champions League meeting with Slavia Prague, leaving Mikel Arteta relying on depth, adaptability and calm heads in the Czech capital.

Martin Zubimendi is suspended after collecting three yellow cards in this season’s competition, and his absence alone would sting. Yet he is joined by Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres. All seven missed training before the squad flew out to Prague, a reminder of how swiftly fate can turn during a demanding campaign.

Gyokeres Blow Adds to Concerns

Gyokeres had been a bright spark, opening the scoring in Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Burnley, only to be withdrawn at half time after reporting a muscular problem.“He is definitely not available, he hasn’t trained today,” said Arteta on Monday night in Prague.

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“We need to do some more tests and scans in the next few days to understand the extent of the injury, but for this game, he is not available.“I am concerned, because he hasn’t had many muscular issues and he had to leave the pitch [on Saturday].“He was feeling something and that’s obviously never a good sign, especially for a player that is very, very explosive.”

Key Figures Racing Against Time

Martinelli remains sidelined with a muscular issue, Havertz, Jesus, Madueke and Odegaard all continue to battle knee problems. Arteta suggested last week that the trio of Havertz, Madueke and Odegaard should return in time for the north London derby later this month, while Jesus is targeting a comeback around the turn of the year.

Forward Line Adjustments Likely

With so many attacking absences, Mikel Merino may start centrally, supported by Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard. Arsenal will need clarity, bravery and poise in Prague, a city that often rewards the bold. Victory here would feel like a statement of character as much as quality.