Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on defender Riccardo Calafiori's fitness ahead of the Premier League fixture against Aston Villa on Saturday, January 18, 2025. 
Calafiori, who missed recent matches against Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, may return for the upcoming game at Emirates Stadium. Arteta stated, "We have a few decisions to make this afternoon with the medical staff to understand whether they are in the best condition [to play] this game or the next one. We'll decide that."
The Gunners are currently managing several injuries, with key players such as Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Bukayo Saka facing extended periods on the sidelines. Saka is anticipated to be out until March due to a hamstring injury. Arteta mentioned that White and Tomiyasu are expected to return sooner but confirmed that no long-term absentees are close to returning at this time.
In light of these injuries, the team has relied on the versatility of players like Jurrien Timber, who has featured in multiple positions across the defense. Arteta praised Timber's adaptability, stating, "It's unbelievable what he's done, especially because he's done it on the right, he's done it as a left full-back as well, and we're putting huge demands on him." He also acknowledged the increased workload on fit players due to the current squad limitations.
Arsenal, currently second in the Premier League, will host seventh-placed Aston Villa, who are on a three-match winning streak. Arteta remains cautious, recalling how defeats to Villa impacted their title aspirations last season. He emphasized the importance of internal pressure and the team's pursuit of excellence following their recent victory over Tottenham Hotspur.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 17:30 GMT and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
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