Arsenal are set to be without three first team players for their upcoming game against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the Premier League – despite this, a player who has been out for a significant period could make his triumphant return to the matchday squad.

Reiss Nelson, who has been out of action since December with a major hamstring problem, is reportedly in contention for a spot in the squad on Wednesday evening. He is allegedly back in full training and, as such, may be fit to play against the Mancunian giants – it’s unlikely that Mikel Arteta will drop either Gabriel Martinelli or Bukayo Saka for him in a game such as this, though.

This is where the good news ends for Gunners fans, unfortunately. Arsenal will be without Emile Smith-Rowe, Mohamed Elneny and star striker Gabriel Jesus for their crunch clash against the Citizens.

Jesus is out with a knee injury that he sustained during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar as part of Brazil’s squad. He’s been off the field ever since, but could finally return in early March.

Emile Smith-Rowe, like Jesus, has been out of action for a considerable period but could make his return soon. Suffering with a thigh injury, he’s expected back at the end of February.

Meanwhile, Elneny suffered a knee injury in January, for which he was required to undergo surgery. As things stand, there is no indication as to when the Egyptian will return to action – however, Arteta has stated that he could be out for an ‘extended period of time’.