During the two-week international break in September, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard suffered a serious injury while representing Norway. Although he remains sidelined for now, there is growing optimism that he could make a quicker return than expected.
Arsenal is set to face Bournemouth when the break concludes, with their unbeaten record still intact as they head to the south coast on October 19. Manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and mindset during the 2024/25 season. However, the impressive form of Manchester City and Liverpool suggests that the title race is heating up into a three-way battle.
As several Arsenal players are currently on international duty, the news surrounding the club continues to generate buzz. Here’s a roundup of the latest headlines from the Gunners.
Wright Calls for Fan Support for Jesus
Ian Wright has made an emotional appeal to Arsenal fans to rally behind Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian forward made his first start of the season during the 3-1 victory over Southampton but is now competing for his place in the lineup, especially with Kai Havertz in exceptional form.
“I feel the need to support him right now. I really, really do. I know there’s a feeling that we may have outgrown him, but remember when Gabby came, he was a leveller; he levelled us up,” Wright said on the Wrighty’s House podcast.
“Arsenal are at a certain level now, but we will definitely need him at some stage. So it’s crucial for Arsenal fans to stand by him. They need to get behind him and not be frustrated with how he’s playing. He’s trying so hard at the moment, and we’re going to need him.”
Haaland Ignites Rivalry
Erling Haaland has unapologetically stirred controversy following his incident with Gabriel Magalhaes during last month’s intense 2-2 draw. After John Stones scored a late equalizer, Haaland tossed the ball at the Arsenal defender’s head, resulting in a heated exchange at the final whistle.
“I don’t regret much in life. In the heat of the moment, things happened in that game. What happens on the pitch, stays on the pitch. That’s how it is,” Haaland stated. His comments are sure to escalate the rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City as they vie for the title.
Webb Defends VAR’s Role
Howard Webb has praised the VAR system for its intervention in awarding a goal to Havertz during Arsenal’s 4-2 triumph over Leicester. The goal was initially ruled offside, but VAR stepped in to overturn the decision, as James Justin had inadvertently played the ball to Havertz.
“It shows the benefits of having VAR, doesn’t it? We can rectify this clear and obvious error,” Webb explained on the latest episode of Match Officials Mic’d Up.
“The on-field officials felt it was played by an attacking player to Havertz, but when you watch it back, it’s not; it’s actually played by James Justin, the defender. Therefore, very quickly and efficiently, we can step in and give the goal back. It’s a great demonstration of how VAR can sometimes restore goals, not just take them away.”
