Arsenal Faces Injury Crisis Ahead of Leicester City Clash

LONDON, England — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is grappling with a severe injury crisis as his side prepares to face Leicester City in the Premier League on Saturday. Arsenal has lost key forward Kai Havertz for the season due to a hamstring injury suffered during their training camp in Dubai, leaving Arteta with limited options upfront.

Arteta has recalled young talents Ethan Nwaneri and Raheem Sterling for this match, marking the only two changes from the last starting lineup against Newcastle in the Carabao Cup over a week ago. Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz will not feature as both players are sidelined with hamstring injuries.

Leicester City, who fell to a 2-1 defeat against Manchester United in the FA Cup recently, have also made two changes, welcoming back Jamie Vardy and Victor Kristiansen into the starting eleven. Vardy, noted for his impressive record against Arsenal, returns after injury.

“It’s crucial for us to adapt quickly to these challenges,” Arteta said. “We have talented players, and while it’s unfortunate to miss some key contributors, we trust our squad to rise to the occasion.”

Despite missing Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and other forwards, Arsenal aims to continue their pursuit of the Premier League title, buoyed by their defensive solidity. The Gunners have recorded just 0.89 expected goals against (xG) per match this season, the best rate in the league.

Ben White has been included among the substitutes for Arsenal after recovering from a knee injury that sidelined him for 21 games. Meanwhile, the Foxes have Rúben Loftus-Cheek and Jannik Vestergaard available for selection, providing a boost to their squad as they aim to improve their recent form.

Arsenal’s predicted lineup includes David Raya in goal, with Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Myles Lewis-Skelly forming the defense. Declan Rice, Thomas Partey, and Martin Ødegaard will anchor the midfield, while Sterling, Nwaneri, and Leandro Trossard are set to lead the attack.

“It’s tough having to play without so many key players,” said Sterling. “Still, each game is an opportunity for myself and others to step up and make a difference.”

As Arsenal and Leicester go head-to-head, each team aims to secure vital points in the league. The match is set to kick off at 12:30 GMT on Saturday, February 15.