Arsenal have made it to the first international break of the season after a decent start to the Premier League campaign.
Big victories over Wolves and Aston Villa kickstarted things for Mikel Arteta, but a disappointing draw to Brighton followed.
With a two-week break ahead, the Arsenal boss has a chance to reset and look ahead to a difficult period which includes a North London Derby, the return of the Champions League and a clash with Manchester City.
The Gunners will be looking to prepare for it in the best way possible, but the international break could have a huge impact on that ability.
So with that said, here’s a look at Arsenal’s potential nightmare international break for Arteta and his staff.
Leandro Trossard transfer exit to Saudi Arabia
While the European transfer windows have all closed, there are still some last-minute deals going ahead elsewhere in the world.
Saudi Arabia is one of those places, with the ever-growing Saudi Pro League looking at some additions from the Premier League.
Leandro Trossard has been linked with an Arsenal transfer exit to Saudi Arabia as one of those deals in the final hours of their market.
While an initial offer has been turned down for the Belgian international, there’s no guarantee that he could stay.
Trossard has been a crucial part of the team since joining from Brighton, often scoring crucial goals at key moments.
Arsenal injury troubles
Another huge blow for Arsenal could come in the shape of potential injury concerns in the coming international break.
11 players are in action, all of which have a key role in the first team and may be needed for the tough fixtures ahead.
Should any of them suffer injuries, or a whole host of them come back fatigued, then it would be a nightmare break for Arteta.
Raheem Sterling fitness concerns
Over the next two weeks, transfer deadline day recruit Raheem Sterling has a chance to impress Arteta while building up fitness.
While the winger did play in pre-season, he has recently been training by himself in exile from the rest of the Chelsea squad.
He may need time to build up fitness, but if he doesn’t look sharp over those two weeks away, it could be bad news for Arsenal.
The forward will need to work his way into the side and could be called into action as soon as the first game back.
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