{"id":1469,"date":"2026-03-20T20:39:38","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T20:39:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/osport.com.ng\/?p=1469"},"modified":"2026-03-20T20:39:38","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T20:39:38","slug":"arsenal-face-late-twist-before-wembley-as-key-names-miss-training","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/osport.com.ng\/?p=1469","title":{"rendered":"Arsenal face late twist before Wembley as key names miss training"},"content":{"rendered":"


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\n \"ARSENAL\"\"ARSENAL\"\/\n <\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
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Arsenal is one of England\u2019s most prestigious football clubs, competing in the Premier League and European competitions like the UEFA Champions League. Known for its attacking style, rich history, and passionate fanbase, Arsenal has won numerous league titles and domestic\u2026
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Arsenal\u2019s final preparations for Sunday\u2019s Carabao Cup showdown have offered a mixed picture, with fresh training images raising as many questions as they answer. Arsenal trained at London Colney on Friday ahead of their clash with Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, but the absence of a few key names has quickly become a major talking point.<\/p>\n

While training galleries rarely tell the full story, they often provide subtle clues. This time, three notable players were missing from the official images, leading to understandable concern among supporters before one of the biggest fixtures of the season.<\/p>\n

Key absentees raise questions before Wembley<\/h2>\n

The most eye catching absence was Eberechi Eze, who had a brief injury scare during the midweek win over Bayer Leverkusen. After scoring a stunning goal, he appeared to feel discomfort, and the staff took him off as a precaution. Despite reassuring fans in his post match interview that he would be fine, his absence from the latest training pictures has added a layer of uncertainty.<\/p>\n

Alongside him, captain Martin Odegaard and defender Jurrien Timber were also not spotted. In truth, their absence was less surprising given their recent fitness situations, but it still keeps selection questions open heading into the final.<\/p>\n

As per the reports, none of these omissions should be taken as definitive proof that the players missed the session entirely. Training images only capture selected moments, and clubs are often careful about what they reveal publicly, especially before a major final.<\/p>\n

Arteta offers cautious optimism on fitness<\/h2>\n

Manager Mikel Arteta addressed the situation with measured optimism. He confirmed that Arsenal<\/strong> did not pick up any new injury concerns during the midweek fixture, which suggests Eze\u2019s issue was minor rather than serious. His comments also hinted that both Odegaard and Timber still have a chance of being available.<\/p>\n

Beyond the absentees, the squad otherwise looked strong in numbers. Referring there to younger players Max Dowman and Marli Salmon, demonstrating the strengths present in the squad. Their presence in the mix might not have an immediate impact on the first XI, but it did highlight the competition within that has driven up standards all season long.<\/p>\n

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Goalkeeper dilemma adds another layer<\/h2>\n

The absence of David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga was another note of interest from the training gallery. However, this is far less concerning, as goalkeepers often train separately from the main squad at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.<\/p>\n

The real intrigue lies in who will start between the posts at Wembley. Kepa has featured in every League Cup game this season and played a decisive role in the penalty shootout win over Crystal Palace earlier in the campaign. On the other hand, Raya remains the club\u2019s first choice in the Premier League<\/strong> and brings consistency at the highest level.<\/p>\n

Arteta refused to confirm his decision, stating that the final call would depend on how players respond in the last training session. That competition reflects the squad\u2019s overall intensity, where players must earn their places rather than rely on guarantees.<\/p>\n

A defining moment in Arsenal season<\/h2>\n

This final carries significance beyond silverware. Arsenal have not reached this stage of the competition since 2018, when they fell short against the same opponent under Arsene Wenger. The chance to change that narrative now sits before them.<\/p>\n

Seasons tend to be remembered for moments like this, from a wider football<\/strong> perspective. Squad depth, injury management and tactical decisions are all scrutinized in greater detail, and small details can prove decisive.<\/p>\n

Arsenal head into Wembley with cautious optimism. The training ground hints at minor concerns, but not a crisis. If key players recover in time, Arteta will have the tools needed to challenge one of the strongest sides in Europe. The final decision now rests on fitness, preparation and the ability to deliver when it matters most.<\/p>\n

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Deepanjali Bhardwaj
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Deepanjali Bhardwaj is a Sports Writer at Six Sports, covering both football and cricket with a focus on match developments, player performances, and key talking points across the two sports. Her work combines timely reporting with clear analysis, helping readers stay informed about major matches, tournaments, and emerging storylines in the football and cricket landscape.
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\nThrough her coverage at Six Sports, Deepanjali contributes match reports, analytical pieces, and feature stories that highlight important moments, team strategies, and standout player performances across domestic and international competitions. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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