Arsenal Prepares for Carabao Cup Quarter-Final Against Crystal Palace: Arteta Provides Injury Update

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on player fitness ahead of their crucial Carabao Cup quarter-final fixture against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.

Following recent draws in the Premier League, including a goalless draw against Everton, the Gunners are aiming for a strong performance to progress in the competition.

Injury Update:

Arteta addressed the status of several key players:

• Declan Rice: The midfielder was substituted during the Everton match due to a minor muscular issue.
• While Arteta offered a positive assessment, stating Rice is “fine,” his availability for the Crystal Palace game will be determined by a late fitness test. “He’s fine.
• We will make the decision on whether he’s available or not,” confirmed Arteta.
• Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori: Both defenders remain unavailable as they continue their recovery from respective injuries.
• “Alex and Riccy will still be out of the squad for tomorrow,” Arteta stated.

Context and Importance:

Arsenal’s recent Premier League form has been inconsistent, placing them behind league leaders Liverpool.

Consequently, the Carabao Cup represents a significant opportunity to secure silverware this season.

With only three victories separating them from the trophy, a win against Crystal Palace is crucial.

The Challenge Ahead:

While Arsenal has historically held the edge in recent encounters with Crystal Palace, winning their last four meetings, Palace enters the match in strong form, remaining unbeaten in their last five fixtures.

This suggests a competitive encounter, requiring Arsenal to perform at their best to advance to the semi-finals.

While Arteta has utilized squad rotation in earlier rounds of the Carabao Cup, the importance of this fixture suggests a stronger starting XI is anticipated.

The potential inclusion of Declan Rice, pending his fitness assessment, would further bolster the team.