Arsenal is facing a significant uncertainty ahead of their Premier League clash against Leicester City on Saturday, September 28, 2024, as goalkeeper David Raya's fitness remains a major doubt due to a thigh injury.
Raya, who has been in sensational form for the Gunners this season, missed the Carabao Cup third-round victory over Bolton Wanderers on Wednesday with the injury, which he sustained during the previous weekend's match against Manchester City.
Arteta's Update on Raya's Fitness
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal's manager, has been cautious about Raya's availability. During the pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta stated, "We have to wait another 24 hours. We have to wait 24 hours to see if it’s looking good or not that good. It’s not about a risk, it’s about a player being fit and available or not. When we have that clarity for Leicester, which is the main thing we’re thinking about at the moment, we will make that decision tomorrow.".
Impact on the Team
Raya's potential absence would be a significant blow to Arsenal, given his crucial role in the team's unbeaten start to the season. He has been instrumental in Arsenal's defensive solidity, and his absence could see Neto make his debut for the club.
Alternative Goalkeeping Options
If Raya is not fit, Neto is expected to step in. Neto, who is cup-tied and could not play in the Carabao Cup, would be the likely replacement. In the Carabao Cup match against Bolton, 16-year-old Jack Porter filled in and made a strong impression, but Neto is the more experienced option for the Premier League fixture.
Recent Sightings and Speculation
There have been reports suggesting that Raya was not spotted arriving at the team hotel with the rest of the Arsenal squad on Friday, which has fueled speculation that he might not be fit for the match against Leicester.
Other Team News
While Raya's fitness is a concern, Arsenal is set to be boosted by the return of defenders Ben White and Jurrien Timber, who both missed the Carabao Cup win over Bolton but are expected to be available for the Leicester match.
Predicted Lineup and Injuries
The predicted Arsenal lineup includes Raya, though his inclusion is subject to his fitness. Other players who are confirmed to be out include captain Martin Odegaard with an ankle injury, Mikel Merino with a shoulder injury, and several other players with various injuries.
Fantasy Premier League Implications
For Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, Raya's injury is a significant concern. With over 400,000 managers transferring Raya into their squads ahead of Gameweek 6, his absence could impact many teams. The FPL website indicates a 75% chance of Raya being fit, but the latest updates suggest this might be overly optimistic.
As the decision on Raya's fitness is set to be made on the day of the match, Arsenal fans and FPL managers alike will be eagerly awaiting the final team news to see if their key goalkeeper will be available to face Leicester City.
