Football managers across the Premier League face crucial fitness tests and selection dilemmas ahead of Gameweek 10, with several high-profile players managing knocks, strains, and disciplinary issues. Fantasy managers and supporters alike are keeping a close watch on the medical rooms as clubs balance domestic fixtures with demanding European schedules.
From Arsenal addressing concerns over defensive stalwarts to Manchester United losing key midfielders to long-term issues, the latest updates shape the tactical setups for the upcoming weekend of matches.
Latest Fitness Updates on Ezri Konsa and Arsenal Team News
Ezri Konsa was replaced in the 62nd minute against Slavia Prague in midweek, but Mikel Arteta has eased concerns with a positive update on the defender. Arsenal head coach Arteta told journalists during his Friday press conference that the player is fine.
"He was feeling much better today. We took him out as a precaution [in Prague] but yesterday and today he is feeling good," Arteta said. William Saliba is supposedly ready for minutes, though it was Cristhian Mosquera who replaced Konsa in Czechia.
Meanwhile, the Gunners continue to manage longer-term fitness concerns within the squad. Bukayo Saka remains sidelined with his injury issue, while Max Dowman serves a suspension.
Leeds United Face Late Fitness Tests for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Joe Rodon
Leeds United have a few question marks ahead of their game against Tottenham on Saturday, particularly regarding centre-back Joe Rodon, who has returned to full team training. Noah Okafor has been limited to individual training this week and remains a doubt, alongside Anton Stach, who was limited to 35 minutes at Bournemouth last weekend due to a foot issue.
On Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Daniel Farke told reporters on Thursday that the striker had a little setback with his foot as well. Farke noted that the forward was not able to train with the group, though the manager remains carefully optimistic about a swift return.
"He was not able to train with us today but I would say I am carefully optimistic that he is back in training, hopefully tomorrow, and then he would also be available," Farke stated regarding Calvert-Lewin.
Manchester United and Liverpool Injury Setbacks
Manchester United suffered a significant blow when Carlos Baleba was sidelined for several weeks after he pulled up with a hamstring injury during the team's win over Roma in the Champions League. Michael Carrick did not comment on Harry Maguire, who was pictured limping after being replaced in midweek, while Lisandro Martinez is suspended.
Liverpool are also dealing with fitness hurdles as Ryan Gravenberch was an unused substitute against Arsenal and skipped the trip to Fenerbahce. The Dutchman is a doubt to face Crystal Palace in Gameweek 10.
Andoni Iraola explained the situation by stating that the team will likely remain in the same physical condition as before. Iraola noted that the Ryan situation is handled day-to-day to see if he can deal with the pain and help the side.
Chelsea, Manchester City, and Brighton Squad Status
Chelsea's medical staff will assess Emi Martinez tomorrow before determining whether he will feature away to Sunderland. Moises Caicedo also faces a race against time as he has been hampered by a calf complaint this week.
For Manchester City, Antoine Semenyo is thought to be the club's only certain absentee at the time of writing. Nico O'Reilly has not been included in Thomas Tuchel's latest England squad due to a troublesome knee, and Enzo Maresca suggested the defender's back is not one hundred percent, making him a doubt for the trip to Nottingham Forest.
Brighton midfielder Pascal Gross has played 16 consecutive games, and Fabian Hurzeler spoke glowingly of his physical condition after the Conference League win over Getafe. Hurzeler mentioned that at one point the club needs to manage him, but for now he keeps running in good shape. Ferdi Kadioglu might be ready for the match against Brentford, while Pascal Struijk is being monitored day by day.
