Arsenal’s preparations for their pivotal Champions League clash against Monaco have hit another snag, with Thomas Partey’s fitness status casting a shadow over the team. The Ghanaian midfielder, plagued by recurring injuries this season, was absent from Tuesday’s open training session at London Colney, fueling doubts about his availability.

Partey’s potential absence comes alongside injury concerns for Jurrien Timber, Oleksandr Zinchenko, Gabriel Magalhaes, and Riccardo Calafiori, all of whom were also missing from training. Manager Mikel Arteta admitted in a press conference that several players remain uncertain for the match and will undergo late fitness tests.

“We have to manage a lot of the players,” Arteta revealed. “Some of them probably aren’t going to be fit. Some are still a doubt. We have 24 hours to make a decision and hopefully, it’ll be the right ones.”

Partey’s injury woes have been a persistent issue for the Gunners this season, severely impacting their midfield stability. Despite a brief return to action recently, the Ghanaian’s availability remains a crucial factor in Arsenal’s European ambitions.

With the squad announcement looming, Arsenal fans will be holding their breath, hoping for positive news about Partey and his teammates as the team aims to secure a vital result in Europe.