
Thu Sep 19 08:45:50 UTC 2024: ## Arsenal Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Champions League Opener Against Atalanta
Arsenal are set to face a challenging start to their Champions League campaign as they travel to Bergamo to face Atalanta on Thursday night.
The Gunners will be without key players, including captain Martin Odegaard, who sustained an ankle injury during the international break. The availability of winger Bukayo Saka, who limped off in the North London derby, is still uncertain despite returning to training.
While new signing Riccardo Calafiori is back in training following his own injury, he is expected to remain on the bench with Jurrien Timber and Jakub Kiwior likely to start in defense.
Atalanta, too, are dealing with injuries, with key players Gianluca Scamacca and Girogio Scalvini sidelined with ACL injuries. Captain Rafael Toloi and Ben Godfrey are also expected to miss the game.
Despite the injuries, both sides are eager to start their Champions League journey on a positive note. The match is set to be a tight affair, with Arsenal needing to overcome their injury woes to secure a crucial victory.