The clash with the Manchester United blockbuster is headlined in the Premier League opening weekend, but up to six stars could be seen on the sidelines at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Red Devils are sweating the fitness of goalkeeper Andre Onana ahead of the season’s opening game against Mikel Arteta’s side. Cameroon International has been absent throughout the preseason campaign and remains trapped in a desperate competition for time to feature in United’s Curtain Razor.
A nasty hamstring problem kept him on the sidelines and forced Turkish goalkeeper Altai Bayindir to delegate him over the summer.
Bayindir may hold his place between the sticks against the very enemy, the gunner, who he starred in last season’s victorious FA Cup final.
However, Onana offered an encouraging fitness update earlier this month, hinting at potential returns. He said: “I feel good, I feel good. It was some difficult weeks. But yeah, hopefully, I’ll be back to the start of the season.”
Amorim is facing a defensive headache with several major backline players unavailable, including injured Lisandro Martinez. Despite the Argentine centre-back enduring the hardships of fitness and traveling with the team for their US tour, a clear timeline for his comeback has not been established.
Noussair Mazraoui has also not been found in training sessions following his forced halftime withdrawal during United’s preseason curtain lazer against Leeds last month in Stockholm.
The nature of his injuries remains private, but his continued absence suggests worrying news for United Camp. Linking to a move away from United amid an influx of new offensive talent, Joshua Zilkie is uncertain about going against Arsenal. The Dutch said in July that they were aiming to return in the opening match.
Meanwhile, Arsenal, who painted this fixture last season, wants to start with his right foot. Mikel Arteta’s team could potentially include some of the new signatures.
Viktor Gyoker is expected to lead the attack. This is a bonus considering Gabriel Jesus still suffers a terrible knee injury.
The Brazilians have been on the sidelines since early 2025, with Arsenal scrambling players to lead the offense, urging Gyoker’s pursuit. Leandro Trossard is one player who stepped up when needed, but the Belgian also struggles with fitness.
He was not included in the team on Saturday as Arsenal beat Athletic Bilbao 3-0 in his final season. However, Arteta is sure he can take advantage of him quietly.
“He’s a bit at home in the gro caliber — but he’s fine,” commented the Arsenal boss.
