National team manager makes a selection decision that Arsenal would love

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Just Arsenal News

·21 September 2026

National team manager makes a selection decision that Arsenal would love

The international break is a period when clubs become increasingly concerned about the welfare and fitness of their players, and Arsenal are no different, given the number of international stars in their squad.

Even players such as Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi, who have not played much football during this campaign, have been called up by their respective national teams. Their involvement highlights the demands placed on players during an extended international period.

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Arsenal benefit from Hincapie decision

The expanded September and October international break means these players could play as many as four matches before returning to their clubs. Therefore, when a player is allowed to remain at home by their national team coach, clubs are likely to welcome the opportunity for that player to rest and recover.

That is the case for Piero Hincapie, with Standard Sports reporting that the new Ecuador manager has decided not to call him up, alongside Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo and some other important players.

The decision gives Hincapie and the other players time to rest amid concerns about their fitness. Ecuador will be involved mostly in friendly matches during this window, and the manager also wants to use the opportunity to look at other players.

(Photo by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Hincapie remains an important option

Hincapie has not been a regular for Arsenal this season, but he remains one of the key players in the squad. His absence from Ecuador’s latest selection could therefore provide Arsenal with an opportunity to manage his fitness carefully while he remains in London.

Although he has not featured regularly, Hincapie remains a player Arsenal can rely on when an opportunity arises. His ability to come into the team and perform well means he remains an important option for the club as the campaign continues.

For Arsenal, having Hincapie remain with the club during the international break could allow him to work on his fitness and prepare for the next stage of the season. With the schedule placing significant demands on international players, the decision not to call him up could give him valuable time to recover.

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