please log in to view this image Arsenal v Leeds United Saturday 23rd August @17:30 | Emirates Leeds travel to the Emirates at the weekend for a Saturday early evening showdown with Premier League heavyweights Arsenal. Coming off an expected but somewhat unconvincing 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford to kick off their 2025-26 campaign, the Gunners are eager for a more decisive performance. Leeds, meanwhile, also began their return to the top flight with a 1-0 home win against Everton, a result that marked a positive start to their season. Securing any points at the formidable Emirates would be considered monumental for Daniel Farke's side as they embark on their quest for Premier League survival. However, both camps arrive with their respective injury concerns. Arsenal's midfield suffers a blow with Kai Havertz sidelined by a knee injury; the club's apparent search for a replacement suggests the issue is more serious than initially hoped. Long-term absentee Gabriel Jesus continues his rehabilitation from an ACL injury sustained in January, with no immediate return expected. Christian Norgaard, who missed the trip to Manchester with a knock, could make the matchday squad this weekend. As for Leeds, Daniel Farke faces a few selection headaches. Defensive linchpin Ethan Ampadu is a risk after picking up an ankle injury on Monday, though Farke has downplayed its severity, claiming only bruising. Fellow summer recruit Sebastiaan Bornauw's calf problem kept him on the bench against Everton, leaving his starting status for Saturday uncertain. Further concerns linger over new signing Noah Okafor, who reportedly failed his initial Thorp Arch medical on Wednesday. Specialists gave Leeds the green light to sign him anyway, but there are certainly question marks whether he'll be fit for the weekend. Similarly, fellow newbie Dominic Calvert-Lewin, continues to build fitness after missing pre-season. Jaka Bijol, who missed the win against Everton due to suspension could edge Pascal Struijk out of the starting line-up. Similarly, Farke may decide on a back three of Rodon Struijk and Bijol.
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Leeds United captain Ethan Ampadu will be missing until at least after the upcoming international break after injuring the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his right knee.
