Arsenal faces a daunting challenge as they prepare to take on Slavia Prague in the Champions League, with a staggering number of key players sidelined due to injuries and suspensions. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: the team’s depth will be tested like never before, as manager Mikel Arteta scrambles to piece together a competitive lineup. Among the notable absentees are Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Viktor Gyokeres, whose recent injury has left fans and pundits alike holding their breath. And this is the part most people miss: Gyokeres’ absence could significantly impact Arsenal’s attacking dynamism, given his explosive style of play. Arteta confirmed on Monday night in Prague, ‘He is definitely not available, he hasn’t trained today. We need to do more tests to understand the extent of the injury, but for this game, he’s out.’ The manager’s concern is palpable, especially since Gyokeres rarely faces muscular issues, making his early exit on Saturday all the more alarming. Adding to the woes, Martinelli’s muscular injury, along with knee injuries to Havertz, Jesus, Noni Madueke, and Martin Odegaard, leaves Arsenal’s attacking options severely depleted. This could force Mikel Merino into an unfamiliar role leading the line, supported by Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard. But here’s the controversial part: is Merino the right man for the job, or could this be a tactical misstep? Meanwhile, Christian Norgaard is poised to step in for the suspended Martin Zubimendi at the base of midfield, while Ethan Nwaneri might replace Eberechi Eze, who has started the last six games. Defensively, Arteta may opt to rotate his full-backs, with Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly potentially replacing Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori. The predicted lineup (4-3-3) could see Raya in goal, White, Saliba, Gabriel, and Lewis-Skelly in defense, Nwaneri, Norgaard, and Rice in midfield, and Saka, Merino, and Trossard up front. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: With so many key players out, is Arsenal’s Champions League campaign at risk, or will this be the moment their squad depth proves its worth? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. Time and date: 5:45 PM GMT on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Venue: Fortuna Arena. How to watch: TNT Sports.
