The international break can be a tense time for any football club manager, and for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta it is no different.
With key players away on international duty, Arsenal will be hoping to return to Premier League action with a fit and refreshed squad.
But, with a few lucky breaks, the team could receive a triple boost that would strengthen their title hopes.
Current State Of Affairs
Arteta can’t risk losing more players as the North London derby looms since Mikel Merino is out with an injury and Declan Rice is suspended.
Meanwhile, both Martin Odegaard and Thomas Partey are playing for their respective national teams, and Ethan Nwaneri is occupied with the England Under-19 team.
Fortunately, Jorginho has remained as part of the group during the break.
He is joined by Raheem Sterling who is on loan from the Blues and plans to spend his season in London.
Similarly, Ben White will also remain in North London as his England status has not changed yet.
New Signing That Impresses
Sterling has impressed, with clips and images of him circulating online showcasing his skills.
The loanee from Chelsea looks to be in top form as he trains in the absence of Bukayo Saka.
It is very possible that Sterling could continue to grow under the tutelage of Mikel Arteta, and that he might even get a chance to play against Tottenham for the team.
Leaving The English Team
Phil Foden, Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer have all left their England duty and returned to their clubs.
And interim team boss of England, Lee Carsley, has decided to not call up anyone for the upcoming games against Finland and Ireland.
It is safe to assume that Arsenal would also be keen to see Saka and Rice leave their England duty to return to the club in preparation for the upcoming games.
This duo was key to the Euro 2024 summer campaign, and taking some time out to rest before returning to Arsenal would be in their best interest.
Football fans are eagerly watching these developments, and many will be keeping a close eye on Arsenal’s line-up changes through football betting sites.
With the possibility of Saka and Rice being rested and Sterling stepping up, betting markets will reflect the shifting dynamics of the team’s odds in upcoming matches.
Punters will have to weigh up all these factors if they want to place bets on Arsenal’s chances of winning the North London derby and future matches.
Signing Free Agents
The current transfer window remains closed until the Premier League registration date on 14 September, but Arsenal (and the other clubs) can still sign new members, as there are plenty of free agents available.
If Arsenal wishes to do so, they can still sign Sergio Ramos, Adrien Rabiot, Anthony Martial or Memphis Depay.
Some would make more sense than others for the club, but with injuries and a suspension lingering, it could be worth it for the Gunners to consider some fresh talent and bolster their numbers.
It is an interesting time for the team, with many upcoming changes.
Although it is difficult to say with certainty which players will join, Arteta and his staff are undoubtedly exploring all options to strengthen the squad during this crucial period of the season.
Should the triple boost become a reality – Sterling continuing to impress, Saka and Rice leaving England duty, and signing a free agent – the Gunners might just be set for a very strong season.
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