Arsenal set for huge injury boost ahead of Everton clash

Arsenal manage midfield load ahead of defining run

Arsenal head into a decisive phase of their season with cautious optimism, buoyed by a carefully managed approach to Martin Zubimendi’s fitness. Arsenal are managing Martin Zubimendi’s workload heading into the festive period, a detail that speaks to broader planning rather than immediate concern.

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The numbers underline his importance. Of Arsenal’s outfield players, only Declan Rice has played more Premier League minutes so far this season than Zubimendi. The Spanish midfielder has started every league match and five of the six Champions League fixtures, missing the Slavia Prague match due to suspension. This level of reliance explains the vigilance.

Workload context behind training absence

Concern flickered when Zubimendi did not take part in Tuesday’s open training session, held after Mikel Arteta gave his players two days off following the win over Wolves. However, there are not believed to be any injury concerns. It is understood that Arsenal are keen to manage his workload after a busy few months, with Zubimendi doing work away from the main group.

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This is unfamiliar territory for the midfielder. This will be Zubimendi’s first season without a winter break, having only previous played in La Liga for Real Sociedad, and the Gunners are keen to protect him. In that sense, absence becomes a sign of foresight rather than fragility.

Everton trip starts relentless schedule

Starting with a trip to take on Everton on Saturday night, Arsenal face a run of seven matches in 22 days over Christmas and into the New Year. The schedule blends league pressure with cup ambition, including a Carabao Cup quarter final against Crystal Palace on December 23 and an FA Cup tie away at Portsmouth on January 11, as Arsenal look to maintain their charge on all fronts.

There were mixed notes elsewhere on the training ground. Kai Havertz has returned to the grass in his comeback from injury, but is not yet ready to take part in full training and was not with his team mates. Defensive trio Christhian Mosquera, Ben White and Gabriel were also absent. Arteta, though, will be boosted for the Everton match by the return of Riccardo Calafiori from suspension.

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In a title race shaped by margins, Arsenal’s approach to Zubimendi feels less like caution and more like intent.