Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta faces a thin squad after two straight defeats, losing the FA Cup to Southampton and the Carabao Cup final to Man City. With the squad drained by internationals, Arteta must reshape his lineup for the Champions League quarter‑final against Sporting and the Premier League clash with Bournemouth next weekend today.

The injury list is a nightmare: Kepa Arrizabalaga, who blundered in the Carabao final, remains in goal, while first‑choice David Raya sits unused. In defence, Ben White returns after Jurrien Timber’s groin setback, and William Saliba is poised to partner Gabriel, who limped out of Southampton ahead of the critical two‑game stretch and the pressure.

Midfield will see a gamble with Declan Rice possibly returning, while Odegaard and Zubimendi may be dropped to accommodate the injury‑stricken squad. Forward options lean toward Viktor Gyokeres, who netted from the bench in the last match, and Kai Havertz, who could step back into a forward role for the weekend clash of Sporting and Bournemouth.

With Arsenal chasing both Champions League success and a Premier League title, Arteta’s choices now carry double weight. A misstep could cost the club a chance at silverware, while a well‑timed squad rotation might keep the Gunners competitive across both fronts. The upcoming matches will decide the direction of the season for the rest of the