Mikel Arteta responds to Gabriel Magalhaes Arsenal absence rumour ahead of Aston Villa

The Arsenal manager has given the latest on his Arsenal team including Gabriel Magalhaes. Mikel Arteta addressed the media ahead of Arsenal’s game against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Arsenal will be playing last this weekend behind both Manchester City and Liverpool. It is an opportunity for their rivals to put the pressure on the Gunners after their clash with Villa was moved due to Unai Emery’s side taking part in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

Arteta has the tough task of managing rotation of course ahead of their trip to Germany. Arsenal face Bayern Munich after a 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium left the tie on a knife-edge.

There were rumours circulating ahead of the press conference that Gabriel Magalhaes had missed the training session. Asked specifically about Gabriel, Arteta said: «We've got one more day to prepare the match and we'll see if everyone is available.»

Pressed on whether there had been a hangover from the Bayern game he added: «We have some but hopefully with one more day we'll be okay.»

On Jurrien Timber he said: «Still he’s got a few steps to make. He needs to play at least a game with the 23s. We’re going to have an in house game too. He’s done everything in training now it’s about getting him match fit.»

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Arsenal press conference LIVE: Mikel Arteta on Aston Villa, Unai Emery, Timber and rotation

Arsenal take on Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium at 4:30pm UK Time. We will be covering the game on the football.london matchday blog which is available on the website four hours ahead of kick-off with all the build-up and updates from the north London.

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