Latest Arsenal news analyses the 25-player Premier League and UEFA Champions League squads that have been submitted this week with Mikel Arteta's plans now finalised
Mikel Arteta has decided on the Arsenal players he will be relying upon for the next three months.
Two days later, Arsenal's Premier League squad was submitted and the rules state these selections will remain in place until the winter transfer window opens in January as changes can be made if Arteta sees fit. With that said, it's safe to say the Spaniard requires a lot of luck to ensure the north London outfit qualify from their Champions League group and are well-placed to mount a title charge after Christmas.
Upon a closer look at both squads that have been released, there's plenty to unpack as there could be some opportunities afforded to some of the club's most promising players whilst an experienced player might be in store for a redemption arc.
Timber confusion
Unless there's a mini miracle and he returns to action a lot earlier than expected, the Gunners could have waited to include the Dutchman as they are permitted to make changes to either squad in the new year. In any case, all eyes will be on the next squad submissions as that will provide a clear indication as to whether the 22-year-old plays again this campaign.
Cedric redemption?
But whilst Arthur Okonkwo, Rob Holding, Nuno Tavares, Kieran Tierney, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nicolas Pepe have since departed one way or another, the full-back has remained. The fact he's not been frozen out suggests he could have a part to play between now and the new year.
Considering the one concern coming out of the transfer window is Arsenal's depth in defence, perhaps Cedric is one injury or suspension away from moving up the pecking order at full-back on either flank thus placing him in contention to make a few appearances.
Lino Sousa chance
Alternatively, Arteta can solve a potential defensive crisis by handing a debut to Lino Sousa. The left-back is on List A for the Champions League squad but that might be temporary as come January 2024 he will have been at the club for a whole two years thus allowing him to be moved across to List B.
Furthermore, as the 18-year-old is eligible to play in the UEFA Youth League due to being born after 1 January 2005, he and the likes of Reuell Walters and Amario Cozier-Duberry could be required to pull double duty on a matchday if Arteta needs to boost his squad for a group stage fixture.
Transfer conditions
It's worth keeping in mind that UEFA's ruling states that changes to List A can only be made before the round of 16 in February 2024, when Arsenal, if still in the competition, would be able to register a maximum of three new players, such as new signings or previously injured players.
The latter part certainly applies to Timber. If it's looking like he will play again this season then he could replace either Cedric or Sousa on List A. However that would reduce the number of further alterations allowed to two and that might affect Arteta and sporting director Edu's plans for the winter transfer window.