Mikel Arteta to miss Man City game after testing positive for Covid-19

Arsenal have confirmed that Mikel Arteta won’t be in the dugout for the New Year’s Day Premier League clash against Manchester City after testing positive for coronavirus.

The Gunners have had an impressive first half to the campaign. They are assured of staying fourth in the Premier League standings at the turn of the year.

Next up, the club face a difficult challenge against the reigning champions on January 1, but they will have to cope without the presence of their head coach.

Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19 for a second time. The Spanish tactician will now self-isolate as per government guidelines, and will miss the game.

The news should come as a huge blow for the Gunners, who are currently on a four-match winning league streak.

They face a tedious task against City, who have beaten them in the last nine league meetings. Arteta won’t be there to motivate players, but he could still be involved.

Arsenal assistants Albert Stuivenberg and Steve Round are likely to take care of the match day duties, but Arteta could give instructions from his residence if required.

Hopefully, Arteta can make a quick recovery and guide the club during the hectic schedule next month.

The Gunners will be active across three competitions including the Carabao Cup where they have a double-legged semi-final tie against Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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