
In a shocking development just days before Arsenal’s highly anticipated UEFA Champions League opener against Atalanta, five key players were notably absent from the club’s final training session. With the Gunners making their return to Europe’s elite competition after years of absence, these unexpected omissions have sparked concern among fans and raised questions about the team’s readiness for the important clash in Bergamo.
Sources within the club have confirmed that captain **Martin Ødegaard**, forward **Bukayo Saka**, and midfielder **Thomas Partey** are among those missing from the session. While the reasons for their absence have not been officially disclosed, it is understood that injuries may be the primary cause, with all three having experienced knocks in recent Premier League fixtures.
Ødegaard, the creative lynchpin of the Arsenal midfield, has been instrumental in driving the team’s attacking play this season. Any absence would be a huge blow to Arsenal’s chances of navigating a tough Atalanta side that is known for its high-energy style of play. Likewise, Saka’s dynamism on the right wing and Partey’s physical presence in midfield have made them irreplaceable in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI.
Also missing from the session were **Oleksandr Zinchenko** and **William Saliba**, both of whom have been key defensive figures for Arsenal this season. Zinchenko’s versatility and ability to link the defense with attack have provided crucial balance for the team, while Saliba’s defensive strength and composure have helped solidify the backline. If either player is ruled out for the Champions League opener, it would leave a significant void for Arteta to fill.
The exact status of these players remains unclear, with the club yet to issue an official statement regarding their fitness or availability. Fans will be anxiously awaiting updates, as any long-term injuries could have serious implications for Arsenal’s ambitions both in Europe and domestically.
With the Champions League match against Atalanta fast approaching, Arteta may be forced to shuffle his squad and rely on fringe players to step up on the big stage. Arsenal supporters are hoping that the absences are merely precautionary, but the concern over the Gunners’ lineup for the crucial opener continues to grow.
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