Arsenal vs Angers team news: Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac left out of squad again after knife attack
Unai Emery said earlier this week that the pair are not in the right frame of mind to play
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac have been left out of Arsenal’s matchday squad again to face Angers after being attacked by masked knifemen last week.
Manager Unai Emery admitted earlier this week that the pair are not ready to return because their minds “are not 100 per cent” and both players missed Sunday’s friendly against Lyon.
“Every player is very important in the team, but also each moment and some circumstances give us a decision between the player and us,” Emery said.
“It’s not a good moment to play because their mind is not now 100%. It’s a very personal circumstance and the most important thing now is that they can feel good, they can feel safe, they can feel calm with their family.
“I spoke to them and decided it was best to continue their resting with their families and wait for a few days to hopefully come and start normally with the team.”
Alexandre Lacazette has also been left out of the squad after suffering a suspected sprained ankle against Lyon.
The Frenchman himself claimed that the injury was not serious as he left the stadium in a protective boot, however, he will still miss tonight’s fixture as a precaution.
Youngsters James Olayinka, Zech Medley, Dominic Thompson, Robbie Burton and Tyreece John-Jules are included, while Joe Willock, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson look to build on their impressive form ahead of the new Premier League season.
Arsenal squad in full:
Martinez, Macey, Maitland-Niles, Chambers, Sokratis, Mustafi, Medley, Monreal, Thompson, Guendouzi, Xhaka, Willock, Burton, Olayinka, Mkhitaryan, Nelson, Martinelli, Aubameyang, Nketiah, John-Jules.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments