Arsenal have learned that two key West Ham United figures will be missing for Saturday’s Premier League duel.
Arsenal returning to winning ways against Sporting CP to give Mikel Arteta a resounding boost ahead of the run into 2025.
Sitting nine points behind league leaders Liverpool gives the Gunners a job to do in the Premier League table, particularly as the Reds face Manchester City in week 13.
After Arsenal beat Nottingham Forest, Arteta will be eager for his side to secure a crucial three points against West Ham.
West Ham suffer double blow ahead of Arsenal clash
While the Gunners will be wary of the need to win, Arteta will feel somewhat confident heading into the game considering Arsenal beat West Ham 6-0 last season.
The thrashing came when David Moyes was in charge of the Irons however, it could be argued that Julen Lopetegui’s squad are in a worse state.
Lopetegui has split opinion at the London Stadium as West Ham sit in 14th with more defeats than wins this season.
The Spanaird’s luck could be about to get even worse as against the Gunners, Lopetegui will not be on the sideline to motivate and guide his team.
During the Hammers’ win against Newcastle United, Lopetegui picked up his third booking of the season, resulting in a one-match touchline ban, which he will serve against Arsenal.
Another miss for the hosts will be the continued absence of Mohammed Kudus, who was handed a five-match ban for violent conduct against Tottenham in October.
The Ghana international’s three-match absence was upgraded to five, meaning he will miss out on the Arsenal clash in what will be the final game of his ban.
Arsenal have been linked to Kudus and are aware of the forward’s strengths, making his continued absence a blessing for Arteta’s side.
Why Arsenal will be thankful for Kudus’ absence
Playing against a side with Kudus in it is not easy for any club, as seen last season as no player in the Premier League recorded more dribbles per game than the 24-year-old, via WhoScored.
The Ghanaian is one of the most dangerous players in Europe when he is in form, making his ban a blessing in disguise for the Gunners.
Arsenal wanted to sign Kudus before he moved to West Ham, hinting that Arteta is a long-term admirer of the dynamic forward.
West Ham will have different attacking threats to put Arsenal to the test on Saturday evening but sadly for the Irons, Kudus won’t be involved.
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