Arteta confirms double Arsenal injury blow ahead of Liverpool test

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal's defensive options will remain limited for Thursday's crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool, with key defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori ruled out.[1]

Mosquera suffered an ankle injury in December, which Arteta previously stated would sideline the Colombian for "weeks." Calafiori, meanwhile, picked up a "very awkward" injury during preparations for the Brighton match. Neither player is expected to feature against Liverpool, though Arteta offered cautious optimism on their recoveries.

"They're out again," Arteta said in his pre-match press conference. "I think pretty soon (they will return). They have to go through the last stage of the rehab, and if everything goes well, hopefully soon they will be available for selection."[1]

Arteta provided a positive update on another long-term absentee, noting: "We are monitoring his load. He's been out for a long time for two different reasons. He's very close. He trained this morning again. Hopefully we're going to have him available and the best version of himself."[1] While not explicitly named in the update, context suggests this refers to Kai Havertz, aligning with the headline's mention.

Arsenal head into the fixture in dominant form, sitting 14 points clear at the top of the Premier League table, far ahead of defending champions Liverpool. The Gunners are chasing their first title in over two decades after three straight second-place finishes. This match carries extra motivation as revenge for their only other league defeat this season—a 1-0 loss at Anfield in August, decided by Dominik Szoboszlai's stunning free-kick.

"We want to win every game," Arteta declared. "The most important one is tomorrow's. We know what we have to do to beat them. Now we have to prove it on the pitch."[1]

Boosted by a recent 3-2 victory at Bournemouth, where Declan Rice scored a brace, Arsenal—six points ahead of Manchester City—aim to extend their lead against Arne Slot's side.

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