- Chelsea could be without up to seven players when they make the short trip to face Arsenal in the second round of the Carabao Cup
- The world champions need to overturn a 3-2 away deficit if they are to reach their first major final of the season
- Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has given new information about Bukayo Saka, who limped before the last game against Leeds United
Arsenal host Chelsea tonight at the Emirates Stadium in the second round of the Carabao Cup.
Source: Getty Images
The Gunners have not reached a cup final since 2020 and will be the favorites to qualify for the match at Wembley next month.
They come into this game on the back of a 3-2 win at Stamford Bridge last month, and backed by the home support, they will be more than happy to go through.
Chelsea’s new head coach, Liam Rosenior, has quickly learned the ropes at the club, with the only blemish in his start to life in London so far being the loss of a back leg.
The Blues have won five games in a row, with the latest being an impressive comeback against West Ham United at the weekend. Arsenal, meanwhile, came back from defeat and Manchester United by beating Leeds United 4-0.
Appearing in front of the press on Monday, both managers gave their squad information as they are expected to be without several key players for the match in North London.
Information about Bukayo Saka’s injury
The peak of Mikel Arteta’s concern is Bukayo Sakawho suffered an injury during the warm-up before the Leeds United game. Arteta confirmed that the issue was not serious, but did not directly confirm whether he would be available to play on Tuesday.
“We have to wait. Today, he was better, but we have to wait and see how he responds, then make a decision. It doesn’t look like a big deal. If he will be there tomorrow or at the weekend, we will see,” he said via Arsenal’s website.
Mikel Merino is completely absent as he will need foot surgery for the injury he suffered against Manchester United. Another presence for the locals will be youngster Max Dowman.
Who will miss the Carabao Cup semi-final match between Arsenal and Chelsea?
For visitors, Tosin Adarabioyo (thigh), Darrio Essugo (knee), Levi Colwill (ACL knee), and Mykhailo Mudryk (suspended) are absent indefinitely.
Source: Twitter
Rosenior was embarrassed about Estevao, who was given permission to return to his native Brazil.
“I don’t know yet. For Este, it’s a little kid who’s come in and he’s been really good. He’s going through a very difficult time for personal reasons, and he’s on compassionate leave. I’m not going to put any pressure on him.”
Jamie Gittens was sent off in the first half against West Ham, but Rosenior is unsure of the extent of the damage yet. Goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is also ready.
Arsenal have a relatively easy time in Champions League matches
Meanwhile, Arsenal were given an advantage after finishing at the top of the league stage.
The Gunners led an unblemished campaign, winning all eight of their last eight games to finish with 24 points.
After complaining last season, UEFA changed several rules to give Arsenal an advantage heading into the knockout stages.
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