EPL: Guimaraes may be available for Arsenal against Villa, says Arteta

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on Bruno Guimaraes’ fitness ahead of the Gunners’ Premier League clash with Aston Villa on Monday.

Guimaraes featured in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield but missed the opening league match against Coventry.

According to a statement obtained from the club’s website on Thursday, Arteta said the Brazilian midfielder is potentially available for selection against Villa.

“Yes, potentially available,” Arteta told reporters.

“We just managed the last few days with him. He’s out on the pitch. He’s been doing training sessions. But we need to manage his load to get to Monday in the best possible condition to be able to get selected.”

Arteta also confirmed that new signing Ezri Konsa is available and could make his Arsenal debut against his former club.

“Yes, he’s available. He’s trained really well, and he will be available for selection,” Arteta said.

The Arsenal boss also gave an update on Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, who are yet to feature this season.

“Jurrien is progressing really well. Let’s see how he ends up this week. It’s the third week in a row that he’s been outside, and we have increased his load,” Arteta said.

On Saliba, he added: “Wilo, obviously not much, he’s in conservative load management right now, so that’s going to take a while.”