January 04, (THEWILL) – Mikel Arteta believes he will be able to train with Arsenal on Wednesday and return to the dugout in time for the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool the following day.
After testing positive on COVID-19 at the end of 2021, the Gunners’ manager was forced into self-isolation. Assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg therefore took command of Arsenal’s late 2-1 loss at home to Premier League leaders Manchester City on Saturday, with Arteta forced to watch from home.
However, there is renewed hope that Arteta will be able to return to Arsenal’s London Colney training base soon, as the Gunners prepare for Liverpool’s visit on Thursday with his isolation time set to finish on Tuesday. If he tests negative for COVID-19, he should be ready to resume training on Wednesday.
While Arteta is expected to return to the dugout following a coronavirus infection, his opposite Jurgen Klopp will be unable to go to the Emirates Stadium after testing positive last week.
Klopp, like Arteta, was forced to witness a key Premier League match from home this weekend, as Liverpool blew a two-goal lead at Chelsea, resulting in a 2-2 draw.
Pep Lijnders, Liverpool’s assistant coach, took command at Stamford Bridge and is set to do so again at the Emirates. Alisson, Roberto Firmino, and Joel Matip are also expected to miss out on Liverpool’s side after they all tested positive for the coronavirus last week.
Arsenal will be hoping to avenge their 4-0 defeat at the hands of Liverpool in November. The Gunners got off to a good start at Anfield, but Sadio Mane scored just before halftime, and Arteta’s side went down to a crushing defeat in the second half.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
