Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence against Coventry City on Friday night with Bruno Guimaraes still a fitness doubt, although Mikel Arteta has been handed positive news over Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
The champions host Frank Lampard’s newly promoted side at the Emirates Stadium at 8pm BST, with Arsenal looking to build on Sunday’s 3-0 Community Shield victory over Manchester City.
Guimaraes was withdrawn at half-time at Wembley and later appeared on the bench with ice strapped around his right thigh.
Arteta has not ruled him out, but his availability remains uncertain.
Arsenal vs Coventry team news: Guimaraes faces late fitness call
Asked about Guimaraes ahead of the game, Arteta said the midfielder was “evolving really well” but stopped short of confirming he would be available.
The Standard reports that Arsenal remain hopeful Guimaraes can feature.
His fitness could have a significant impact on Arsenal’s midfield selection.
Rice is available after his carefully managed return following the World Cup. The England international replaced Guimaraes for 45 minutes against City and could be required from the start if the Brazilian misses out.
Saka has also been cleared to play despite receiving limited pre-season minutes since returning from international duty.
Arteta confirmed both England players are ready to be involved.
Martin Zubimendi, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Martin Odegaard provide further options in midfield.
Konsa unlikely to make Arsenal debut against Coventry
Arsenal’s defensive situation has also changed since the original version of this team-news page was published.
Ezri Konsa completed his move from Aston Villa on Friday morning in a deal worth up to £55m, signing a four-year contract with an option for another season.
However, the England defender is not expected to make his Arsenal debut against Coventry.
Ben White and Cristhian Mosquera are therefore among the leading options to start alongside Gabriel and Piero Hincapie in defence.
William Saliba remains sidelined with his long-term back problem.
Jurrien Timber will also miss the opener. Arteta confirmed on Thursday that the Dutchman is still not training with the first-team group and remains weeks away from returning.
Arsenal are overwhelming favourites to begin the season with three points, but Guimaraes’ availability remains the biggest fitness decision facing Arteta before his first Premier League team sheet of 2026/27 is confirmed.
Arsenal injury list: William Saliba, Jurrien Timber.
Doubt: Bruno Guimaraes.
Available: Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice.
Arsenal vs Coventry: Friday 21 August, 8pm BST, Emirates Stadium.
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