“We’ll See..." — Mikel Arteta gives injury update on two stars Ahead of Arsenal vs Manchester City Carabao Cup Final

As the countdown to the Carabao Cup final intensifies, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given fresh injury updates on key players Martin Ødegaard and Jurrien Timber ahead of Sunday’s blockbuster showdown against Manchester City at Wembley. With the Gunners chasing an ambitious quadruple this season, every selection decision could prove crucial in their quest for silverware.

Arteta has been without his captain Ødegaard for the last five matches due to a knee injury he sustained during the defeat to Brentford. The Norwegian playmaker made a brief cameo off the bench in Arsenal’s north London derby victory over Tottenham Hotspur, but he has not started any subsequent games. Ødegaard’s presence in midfield is pivotal for Arsenal’s creativity and leadership on the pitch, making his fitness a major talking point for supporters.

Meanwhile, Jurrien Timber, the Dutch defender who has been a key part of Arsenal’s backline, suffered an ankle problem in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Everton. Timber missed Arsenal’s midweek Champions League clash against Bayer Leverkusen as a result, leaving Arteta to rely on his defensive alternatives. Adding to Arsenal’s injury concerns, winger Eberechi Eze had to leave the Leverkusen match late with his own ankle issue, though Arteta was quick to reassure fans about the youngster’s condition.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta addressed the situation, keeping his comments measured yet hopeful. “We have another training session tomorrow, so the ones that are in contention hopefully can give us good news,” he said, hinting that both Ødegaard and Timber could feature against City. When asked directly about their availability, he reiterated: “We have another session tomorrow, so let’s see if they can make it.”

Arteta is expected to weigh the fitness of his star players carefully, considering the high stakes of the final. The Gunners are aiming to claim their first major trophy since winning the FA Cup in 2020, making this an opportunity that players and staff alike will be desperate to seize. Arteta acknowledged the challenge of making squad decisions, particularly given the number of players who have contributed throughout the tournament. “Everybody has been involved in the competition and in the last day when you have the opportunity to be in Wembley, to give someone no opportunity to be there is difficult, so something to think about,” he explained.

One particularly intriguing aspect of Arteta’s selection will be the choice of goalkeeper. Kepa Arrizabalaga has started every game in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup campaign so far, but Arteta declined to confirm if he would retain his place for the final. “We will see tomorrow how everybody is then make a decision,” he said, keeping rivals guessing. On the opposite bench, Pep Guardiola confirmed that Manchester City’s backup goalkeeper, James Trafford, will start in the final, leaving Arsenal with a tactical decision to make regarding their own last line of defense.

Sunday’s Carabao Cup final is shaping up to be a thrilling clash between two of England’s best teams. With both squads having endured challenging campaigns, the match represents a chance for glory and momentum. For Arsenal, the potential return of Ødegaard and Timber could provide the edge they need to counter Manchester City’s attacking threats. Arteta will also be mindful of managing the fitness of players like Eze, who could make an impact if fully recovered.

The upcoming fixture at Wembley is more than just a trophy final—it is a test of Arsenal’s depth, resilience, and ability to make decisive selections under pressure. Arteta’s careful management of injuries and strategic choices could determine whether the Gunners take their first step toward a historic quadruple. Fans will be watching closely, hoping that the likes of Ødegaard, Timber, and Eze can feature to help secure Arsenal’s first piece of silverware this season.

Sunday promises drama, high stakes, and the chance for Arsenal to assert themselves against one of Europe’s top sides. With Arteta’s squad decisions still under wraps, the stage is set for a tense and thrilling showdown at Wembley.