Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has announced a double boost ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Manchester United, confirming that new signings Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi are in contention to feature at Old Trafford.
Both players, who arrived this summer from Sporting CP and Real Sociedad respectively, have been integrating into the squad during pre-season. While there were minor concerns over their readiness, Mikel Arteta suggested they could be involved this weekend.
“He [Gyokeres] is getting better and better every day,” Arteta said. “He is normally a really fit player and he has had the small moments in two games [in pre-season] with us, so let’s see what he brings on Sunday. Martin [Zubimendi] has had a great integration into the team and we are really happy with him. He will be fit for Sunday.”
The Spaniard also confirmed that Martin Odegaard will remain Arsenal’s captain after a squad vote saw the Norwegian chosen “by a mile” to continue wearing the armband. The unanimous decision came days after former club skipper Tony Adams publicly suggested Declan Rice should take over.
“My opinion is clear, and it is the same as all the staff and the players,” Arteta explained. “I asked them to vote for the captain yesterday, and by a mile, they all chose the same person, Martin Odegaard. Which is the most clear sign you can have of how the squad feel we can improve?”
On the other side, United boss Ruben Amorim confirmed that £73 million signing Benjamin Sesko is fit and could start against Arsenal. The Slovenian striker, who was once linked with the Gunners, is expected to spearhead a new-look attack alongside Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.
“Physically he is ready,” Amorim said. “That is a big component in our league. He’s going to feel that the Premier League is really aggressive.”
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