Arsenal head to the San Siro without defenders Piero Hincapie, Riccardo Calafiori and Max Dowman, though Kai Havertz and Christhian Mosquera are available. Punters should note Arsenal’s defensive absences and their striker’s recent drought — backing Inter or an Inter win with both teams to score looks sensible, while draw markets may offer value if Arsenal reshuffle effectively.
Arsenal injury blow ahead of San Siro showdown
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed three defensive absences for the club’s Champions League trip to Inter Milan. Piero Hincapie is out with a groin problem, Riccardo Calafiori remains sidelined with a muscle issue, and youngster Max Dowman is still recovering from ankle ligament damage. None have rejoined first-team training and all miss the trip to Italy.
Available options and squad note
Arteta reported that Kai Havertz and Christhian Mosquera are available for selection, offering some attacking and midfield cover despite the defensive losses. The manager stressed the squad will be prepared to win, tailoring the lineup and finishing options to the specific demands of the match.
Arteta’s assessment: one game at a time
Arteta reiterated his pragmatic approach ahead of the clash, highlighting that each match brings distinct circumstances and that preparation will focus on winning.
On striker Viktor Gyokeres’ recent struggles
— Arsenal were held to a goalless draw at Nottingham Forest
— Arteta defended the forward’s work-rate and underlined the challenge for number nines in the Premier League given increased physicality and tight defensive spaces.
Gyokeres and the scoring concerns
The manager framed Gyokeres’ form as a consistency issue rather than a confidence problem, urging patience and continued work. With forward options and the team’s attacking structure impacted, finishing in the final third remains a concern heading into a high-stakes European fixture.
Inter Milan: a different look under new leadership
Arsenal face a reorganised Inter, now managed by Cristian Chivu following the departure of Simone Inzaghi. Arteta acknowledged the tactical tweaks and renewed identity the Italian side have adopted, noting their domestic dominance and the challenge that presents. The San Siro clash carries extra edge: last season Inter ended Arsenal’s unbeaten European run with a Hakan Calhanoglu penalty.
Tactical outlook for the contest
With defensive absences, Arsenal may need to adapt their backline or reshuffle personnel, potentially exposing them to Inter’s attacking threats. Conversely, Arsenal’s intent to win means they won’t sit back, which could open the game up if their attack rediscovers rhythm. Expect tactical chess from both managers as they balance personnel constraints with the need for control.
Betting and match implications
Arsenal’s missing defenders and recent scoring issues for their striker imply the match could favor Inter, especially at home. Punters might lean toward an Inter victory or an Inter win combined with both teams to score. However, if Arsenal successfully reshuffle and tighten up defensively, draw markets could offer value — make selections with an eye on starting XIs and late fitness updates.
Key things to watch before kick-off
- Final team sheets for Arsenal’s defensive setup and whether any youth players step in.
- Gyokeres’ starting status and Havertz’s role in attack.
- Early tactical shape from Chivu’s Inter and how they exploit Arsenal’s defensive gaps.
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