Arteta Faces Selection Crisis Ahead of Leeds Clash

Arsenal returns from a three-week international break facing significant injury concerns before Saturday's Premier League match against Leeds United, as Sports Illustrated first reported. The Gunners are seeking a response following a 3-0 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion, which was their first defeat of the season in any competition.

Mikel Arteta, who recently signed a contract extension, faces several personnel dilemmas. Sports Illustrated reports that a muscle injury forced Kai Havertz to withdraw from the Germany squad, potentially opening a starting spot for Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker enters the match in strong form, having scored in all four of his national team's matches during the break.

Other potential changes to the lineup include Eberechi Eze starting at left wing due to an injury to Christos Tzolis. In the midfield, Arteta may replace Bruno Guimarães with Myles Lewis-Skelly following the latter's performance against Brighton. While Declan Rice withdrew from Thomas Tuchel's England roster, he is expected to be fit. In defense, Ezri Konsa is anticipated to return from a dead leg, while Jurriën Timber continues his return from a long-term injury. The predicted lineup also features David Raya in goal, Riccardo Calafiori at left back, Gabriel at center back, Bukayo Saka on the right wing, and Martin Ødegaard as the attacking midfielder.