BREAKING NEWS:Atalanta star Ademola Lookman has revealed that he is currently most wary of one Arsenal defender for their upcoming match, stating, “He’s the only Arsenal defender I’m concerned about at the moment, and I’m still trying to figure out how to get past him tomorrow,” not mentioning Timber or Saliba.

Arsenal are preparing for a tough Champions League opener against Atalanta while dealing with a significant injury crisis. Despite missing several key players like Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Mikel Merino, and Riccardo Calafiori, they managed to secure a 1-0 victory over Tottenham in the North London Derby, showcasing their resilience and adaptability under pressure.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the team’s response to these challenges. “We had to adapt our game plan due to the missing players, but the team handled it brilliantly. Instead of using it as an excuse, we embraced the challenge,” Arteta said after the derby win.

The challenges, however, are not over. Arsenal must first navigate their way past Atalanta, a formidable European opponent known for surprising larger clubs, before they face Premier League champions Manchester City.

Injury concerns remain a major issue for the Gunners. Odegaard is doubtful for the Atalanta game, and Zinchenko, Tierney, Tomiyasu, and Merino are all confirmed to miss both the Atalanta match and the upcoming clash against Manchester City. Additionally, Bukayo Saka, who was substituted late in the Tottenham match with an apparent injury, is also a doubt for the game.

With Saka’s absence, Arteta may turn to 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, a rising star who has impressed in limited appearances. Nwaneri could provide a fresh option on the right wing, while Raheem Sterling, signed in the summer, is expected to replace Gabriel Martinelli on the left. Sterling’s experience and attacking prowess will be essential in breaking down Atalanta’s strong defense.

On the positive side, Arsenal will welcome back Declan Rice, who missed the Tottenham game due to suspension. Rice’s return will likely allow Arteta to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation. Rice’s leadership and defensive capabilities in midfield will be key to neutralizing Atalanta’s counterattacking threats.

Arteta is expected to prioritize controlling the midfield and maintaining defensive discipline, especially against Atalanta’s high-tempo, attacking style. Arsenal’s backline, led by William Saliba and Gabriel, will be crucial in maintaining defensive stability while the team looks to exploit Atalanta’s weaknesses through quick transitions.

Despite the injury setbacks, Arsenal remain determined to make a strong start to their Champions League campaign, with the ambition of finally claiming the elusive European trophy that has long evaded them.