Mikel Arteta's Arsenal are set to host Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday evening in a pivotal Carabao Cup quarter-final, but the fixture is overshadowed by a significant injury crisis affecting both sides. A staggering thirteen players across the two squads are battling fitness issues, casting doubt on their availability for the cup tie.
Gunners' Squad Hit by Defensive Blows
Arsenal approach the match with several key defenders sidelined. Gabriel Magalhaes continues his recovery from an adductor injury sustained last month, while Ben White is ruled out with a hamstring problem. Youngster Cristhian Mosquera is also working his way back from an ankle issue. There was a glimmer of positive news as Kai Havertz returned to training, handing the Gunners a boost, but the German international is not expected to be fit enough to feature against Palace. Midfielder Max Dowman faces a longer spell out after suffering an ankle injury earlier this month.
Eagles Grapple with Absences Across the Pitch
Crystal Palace's preparations have been equally disrupted. The midfield will be without Daichi Kamada due to a hamstring injury, and Cheick Doucoure has yet to feature this season following a problem from the previous campaign. In attack, Ismaila Sarr is unavailable as he is on international duty with Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations. Defender Daniel Munoz is sidelined with a knee injury, and striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is being carefully monitored as he deals with a knee issue of his own. Young talents Rio Cardines and Caleb Kporha are also injured, alongside defender Chadi Riad, who is recovering from a knee injury.
Quarter-Final Stakes and Semi-Final Prize
The match represents a crucial opportunity for both teams. A victory for Arsenal would secure a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals, where they would face Chelsea over two legs in the New Year. The Gunners will be hoping to build on the momentum from their 1-0 Premier League win against Everton last weekend. However, the extensive list of absentees means both managers, Mikel Arteta and Palace's boss, will have to rely on squad depth and tactical ingenuity to navigate this cup showdown and keep their Wembley dreams alive.
