Arsenal’s Champions League clash against Slavia Prague is shaping up to be a test of their squad depth, with a staggering list of key players sidelined by injuries and suspensions. But here’s where it gets controversial: could this be the moment Mikel Arteta’s side redefines its resilience, or will the absence of stars like Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Viktor Gyokeres prove too much to overcome? Let’s dive into the latest team news and predicted lineup.
The Gunners are facing a midfield and attacking crisis, with Gyokeres joining the injury list after a concerning muscular issue. “He is definitely not available, he hasn’t trained today,” Arteta confirmed in Prague, adding, “We need to do more tests to understand the extent of the injury.” What’s alarming is Gyokeres’ explosive playing style, making any muscular problem a red flag. And this is the part most people miss: his absence, coupled with Martinelli’s thigh injury and Jesus’ knee issue, leaves Arsenal’s attacking options alarmingly thin.
Bold prediction: Mikel Merino, not typically a frontman, may be forced to lead the line, flanked by Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard. But is this makeshift attack enough to break down Slavia’s defense? It’s a gamble that could spark heated debates among fans.
In midfield, Christian Norgaard is tipped to replace the suspended Martin Zubimendi, while Ethan Nwaneri could step in for Eberechi Eze, who’s started the last six games. Defensively, Arteta might rotate full-backs, with Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly replacing Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori. Here’s the predicted XI in a 4-3-3 formation: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Nwaneri, Norgaard, Rice; Saka, Merino, Trossard.
Controversial question: With so many injuries, should Arteta have managed his squad differently earlier in the season? Or is this simply bad luck? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
The match kicks off at 5:45 PM GMT on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the Fortuna Arena. Tune in on TNT Sports to see if Arsenal can defy the odds—or if their injury crisis will cost them dearly.
