Arsenal fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Martin Zubimendi is fine.
In today’s presser Mikel Arteta has confirmed that the Spanish midfielder will be fit to face Fulham this weekend despite missing Thursday’s training session, sparking brief panic among supporters.
“All the players come from different countries, different amount of games and minutes played,” Arteta said. “We believe it was the right thing to do. His load has been really high, but he will be available.”
Zubimendi was rested after a busy international break, where he played the full 90 minutes in Spain’s win over Bulgaria, a match that saw fellow Gunner Mikel Merino bag a brace.
Since arriving from Real Sociedad, the 26-year-old has been an instant hit, slotting effortlessly into Arsenal’s midfield and starting nearly every game this season.
But while Zubimendi’s return is a big boost, there’s bad news on the captain front. Martin Ødegaard remains sidelined with a knee injury, and it’s worse than first feared.
“He will be weeks, no definite date for his return, but he’s evolving well,” Arteta revealed. “It’s very unlucky what’s happening with him and his injuries this season, but I think he will be back in a few weeks.”
Pressed on whether the Norwegian could miss games until after the November break, Arteta didn’t rule it out. “It could be, but we will have to see how he is progressing… It’s too early to get an answer.”
With Ødegaard out and Zubimendi cleared for action, Arsenal will head to Craven Cottage on Saturday night looking to keep their momentum rolling, and prove they’re still firing on all fronts despite the captain’s absence.
