Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s confirmed team news, predicted XI, Gyökeres debut prospects, and injury updates ahead of their friendly versus Tottenham on Thursday, July 31, 2025 in Hong Kong:
⚽ Team News & Gyökeres Update
- Viktor Gyökeres, Arsenal’s new summer signing from Sporting CP, could make his debut against Tottenham—but only if medical staff clears him. Mikel Arteta confirmed he has not trained since last season and will be assessed ahead of the match.
- Gyökeres passed medicals with no red flags, but Arsenal remain cautious about rushing his involvement without proper fitness preparation.
🩺 Injuries & Fitness Doubts
- Gabriel Magalhães and Jurrien Timber both missed the last pre-season match due to recovering from surgery; Arteta indicated both could be available for squad action against Spurs but no guaranteed starts.
- Riccardo Calafiori came off injured in the last match with a knee tweak—Arteta described it as possibly minor, but his involvement remains uncertain pending further assessment.
- Gabriel Jesus remains unavailable due to a knee injury and will miss the friendly entirely.
🧠 Predicted Starting XI (4‑3‑3 Formation)
Raya in goal; defence of White, Saliba, Kiwior, Lewis‑Skelly; midfield trio of Ødegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; attack led by Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
Note: Max Dowman or other young players may feature as substitutes—Dowman impressed off the bench in the previous match.
✅ Summary Table
🔍 Context & Implications
This friendly in Hong Kong offers a final opportunity to rotate key players and test fringe options before returning to London. Gyökeres could make his first appearance, though his involvement will hinge entirely on medical and fitness clearance. Gabriel and Timber’s returns would bolster defensive options, though uncertainty remains. Arteta appears likely to stick with a core starting XI to maintain control, while still integrating youth and new signings gradually.
Let me know if you’d like a breakdown of Tottenham’s predicted lineup or specific player matchups!
Leave a Reply