Arsenal FC has been handed a significant morale boost in the lead-up to Sunday's highly anticipated North London Derby against Tottenham Hotspur, with four key players—including captain Martin Ødegaard, forward Gabriel Martinelli, defender Riccardo Calafiori, and winger Noni Madueke—spotted training alongside the first-team squad.
The quartet's presence at the London Colney training ground signals potential returns from their respective injury lay-offs, offering manager Mikel Arteta much-needed options for the clash at the Emirates Stadium. Ødegaard, sidelined by a persistent ankle issue that has kept him out since early October, was observed participating in light drills after supporting Norway's 2026 World Cup qualification campaign from the sidelines. Martinelli, dealing with a groin strain sustained against Crystal Palace last month, joined his teammates for possession exercises, hinting at his readiness to reclaim a starting berth.
Calafiori, the Italian international who withdrew from his nation's squad due to a hip complaint, appears to have made positive progress during intensive rehabilitation, positioning him as a viable option at left-back or in midfield. Meanwhile, Madueke—Arsenal's summer signing from Chelsea—has been absent since mid-September following a knee injury against Manchester City. His return would mark the end of an eight-week absence and add dynamism to the Gunners' attacking flanks.
This development comes amid a broader injury crisis that has tested Arsenal's depth, with players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and new signing Viktor Gyökeres still listed as doubts for the weekend fixture. Arteta, speaking ahead of the derby, emphasized the importance of squad resilience but refrained from confirming line-up changes, stating, "We're focusing on recovery and preparation—every session counts."
Should all four players be deemed fit, it could transform Arsenal's tactical setup, blending Ødegaard's creative midfield orchestration with Martinelli and Madueke's pace on the wings, while Calafiori provides defensive versatility. Official team news is expected later today, but the sight of these stars back in action has already ignited optimism among supporters.
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League table, having conceded just five goals in 11 matches, and a victory over their fiercest rivals would solidify their title credentials. The derby kicks off at 4:30 p.m. GMT.
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