League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Arteta provides updates on injuries and title defense before opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 3:37 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Arteta provides updates on injuries and title defense before opener

Summary

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed the media ahead of the Premier League opener against Coventry City on August 21, confirming that Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice are fit to play. Defender Jurrien Timber remains out but could return in a few weeks. Arteta commented on Bruno Guimaraes' injury, stating the need for assessment. He emphasized the challenge of defending their title and expressed confidence in the team's ability to improve. Arteta praised Coventry's journey back to the Premier League under Frank Lampard's leadership, describing their achievements as remarkable.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Arsenal faces Coventry City on August 21.
•Saka and Rice are available for selection.
•Timber may return in a few weeks.
•Arteta discusses the challenge of title defense.
•Coventry's promotion hailed as remarkable.

Latest Updates

3:37 PMYahoo Sports — Arteta on Guimaraes injury, title defence and Lampard's Coventry

What they're saying

"
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been speaking to the media before Friday's Premier League opener against newly promoted Coventry City at Emirates Stadium (kick-off 20:00 BST). Forward Bukayo Saka and midfielder Declan Rice are "ready to be involved" but defender Jurrien Timber has not trained with the squad. Arteta said the Dutchman may be ready "in the next few weeks".
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Arsenal Manchester City EPL Soccer