Gunners’ Nightmare: Arsenal’s Upcoming Fixture Schedule
In the span of just 24 hours, Arsenal went from signing Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea to facing a nightmare fixture schedule. Within eight days, they will face three grueling trips. To make matters worse, midfielder Declan Rice is banned for one match after receiving his first-ever red card. This means Arsenal will be missing a key player during this challenging period.
On Sunday, September 15, Arsenal will face their biggest rivals, Tottenham, in a highly anticipated match. Just four days later, they have their Champions League group opener against Serie A side Atalanta. And on September 22, they will face the reigning champions, Manchester City, at the Etihad.
The absence of Rice, who has been an integral part of the team, will undoubtedly be felt. His red card against Brighton was controversial, with Rice himself expressing shock at the decision. He believes that he touched the ball with the outside of his foot, which should not have resulted in a red card.
Despite the setback, Arsenal will need to regroup and rely on the depth of their squad to navigate this challenging fixture schedule. The international break will provide a brief respite before the team resumes action. Manager Mikel Arteta will need to strategize and make tactical adjustments to ensure his team performs at their best during this demanding period.
Nketiah’s International Future: A Choice Between England and Jamaica
Steve McClaren, the new coach of the Jamaican national team, is keen on recruiting Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah. McClaren wants Nketiah to switch international allegiances and play for Jamaica instead of England’s Under-21 team. Nketiah, who has only earned one cap for England, could potentially start for Jamaica and be led by McClaren, who previously managed the English national team.
However, Crystal Palace, Nketiah’s new club after leaving Arsenal, believes that he can still boost his chances of earning caps for England this season. The move to Crystal Palace provides Nketiah with a fresh start and an opportunity to impress on a Premier League stage.
Ultimately, the decision lies with Nketiah, who will need to weigh his options and consider where he sees his international career going. Playing for England would undoubtedly come with increased exposure and potential opportunities at the highest level. However, representing Jamaica could provide Nketiah with a chance to be a key player and make a significant impact for the Reggae Boyz.
Rice’s Controversial Red Card: A Shocking Decision
Declan Rice’s red card in the match against Brighton left both him and Arsenal fans shocked. Rice was booked in the first half for a late challenge, and just minutes into the second half, he received a second yellow card for kicking the ball away after Brighton was awarded a free kick. Rice believed that the ball hit his heel as he turned around and that his action should not have resulted in a red card.
Many fans and commentators, including TNT Sports’ Ally McCoist, questioned the decision, arguing that it was the Brighton defender, Joel Veltman, who should have been booked for a reckless swipe at Rice. The inconsistency in the referee’s decision-making frustrated both players and fans alike.
Injury Update: Mikel Merino’s Uncertain Return
Mikel Merino, the new signing for Arsenal, suffered a fractured shoulder in training after a collision with teammate Gabriel. The extent of his injury and the duration of his absence remain uncertain. Merino was seen with his arm in a sling during the match against Brighton, but when asked about the severity of his injury, he admitted that he wasn’t sure when he would return.
This injury setback is unfortunate for Merino, who was likely looking forward to making an immediate impact at his new club. Arsenal will need to assess the situation and make contingency plans to cope with Merino’s absence. The depth of their squad will once again be tested as they navigate this challenging period.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s recent signing of Raheem Sterling on loan from Chelsea was met with excitement, but the focus quickly shifted to the challenges ahead. The team will face a grueling fixture schedule with three tough away matches in just eight days. Additionally, the absence of midfielder Declan Rice due to a controversial red card will add to the team’s challenges.
Meanwhile, Eddie Nketiah’s international future hangs in the balance as he considers the opportunity to play for Jamaica under Steve McClaren or continue pursuing a place in the England national team. Arsenal will also have to cope with the injury to Mikel Merino, whose return date remains uncertain.
Despite these obstacles, Arsenal will need to regroup and adapt to ensure they perform at their best in the upcoming matches. The depth of their squad will be crucial in navigating this challenging period and maintaining their competitive edge.