Arteta calls for expanded squad limits amid injury crisis at Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is advocating for an increase in squad sizes to address the growing injury crisis within the team, highlighted by the season-ending hamstring injury of defender Gabriel Magalhaes. With other key players like Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz also sidelined, Arteta emphasizes that the demands of an expanded schedule—including the Champions League and the new Club World Cup—are placing players at risk. He noted that Arsenal played 17 matches in January and February, significantly more than the previous year, and warned that injuries could escalate if the current schedule persists. Arteta insists that to meet the demands of more games and travel, having a larger squad is essential. He also expressed concerns about the limits of player endurance as the intensity and pressure in football continue to rise. The manager's call for change comes as Arsenal prepares for a crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid amid their injury challenges.