Arteta update on forward’s “niggle in the groin” ahead of United clash

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has assured fans that Leandro Trossard needs to be on hand for the inaugurate of the Premier League season.

The Gunners will begin their 2025-26 Premier League season with a posh test against Manchester United on August 17.

A clash against the Red Devils in overall is a genuine test of Arsenal’s title credentials, and boss Mikel Arteta will seemingly be confident of winning given he has strengthened his squad this summer season.

On the other hand, forward Trossard used to be absent from the Londoners’ team that beat Athletic Bilbao 3-0 on Saturday in their final friendly outing.

Speaking to newshounds in the aftermath of the win, Arteta acknowledged the forward has a tiny groin field but added that he needs to be on hand for next weekend’s showdown, saying: “I think he is going to be [ok] in a few days. He had a little niggle in the groin – but he should be fine.”

While the 30-year-old is unlikely to be first choice in attack, the Arsenal boss will still want a fully fit squad to choose from.

How are Arsenal shaping up ahead of Manchester United Premier League game?

Striker Viktor Gyokeres managed to get off the mark against Athletic Bilbao, scoring after an excellent delivery from Martin Zubimendi.

Zubimendi has looked impressive in possession for the Gunners, and his passing ability could help replace the qualities that made Granit Xhaka such a threat in 2022-23.

Arsenal have beaten AC Milan, Newcastle United and Athletic Bilbao in pre-season, but they did suffer defeats against Tottenham Hotspur and Villarreal.

Though outcomes have been mixed, results in friendlies are ultimately of little importance, with increasing the fitness levels of players the priority for every club.

Who should Mikel Arteta pick to lead his side’s attack?

Given that Manchester United have often played direct football under boss Ruben Amorim, it would not be surprising if they surrendered possession next Sunday.

If they do defend in a deeper block, Arteta will need as much creativity in his starting XI as possible to break down their defensive structure.

Bukayo Saka and Gyokeres are certain to be automatic picks for the Spaniard, but he will face a difficult selection choice on the left flank.

Winger Gabriel Martinelli has not scored in five pre-season games, but did provide two assists for teammates.

The Brazilian has at times struggled to make an impact in matches against deep defensive lines, so perhaps newcomer Noni Madueke could be given a start against United.

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