KEY POINTS

  • Mesut Ozil and Lucas Torreira have yet to see action for Arsenal
  • Arteta reiterates conditioning still key in determining starters
  • Torreira could be headed to Torino on a loan deal

Arsenal FC is evolving and this evolution doesn't include Mesut Ozil and Lucas Torreira. Both stars are nowhere to be found and pundits are now trying to find out what the real score is with both players.

Ozil was not part of the club’s Carabao Cup win over Leicester City, 2-0. The German continues to be holed up, not seeing action since the football restart in June. Ozil has not gotten any playing time for the opening three games of the Blues but manager Mikel Arteta reiterated that choosing the players that would see action has been very "difficult," Goal reported.

“It's difficult for others as well that aren't involved in the Premier League and didn't play tonight either. We have a squad of 26, 27 players at the moment and we can't give playing time to all of them,” Arteta said. “I understand and I respect your questions but I have to try to do my job as fair as possible. I try to select the players that are, in my opinion, in better condition.”

Ozil has been under the radar with critics hitting on his laid-back nature. Though there were rumors of him possibly moving out of Emirates Stadium, it appears the German is determined to finish the season and ponder on his future after. This is despite the interest that the 31-year-old midfielder has been getting.

However, Ozil is not the only one speculated to be leaving Arsenal. Torreira also has yet to play this season and there are clubs interested in the Uruguayan player. Atletico Madrid and Torino are interested in signing him but Arteta insists that he is still with the Gunners.

“I’m not making decisions because players might leave or stay,” said the Gunners boss. “It's just for the players that we see every day in the best possible condition to compete and win football matches.”

As mentioned in a previous post, Arsenal is believed to be in discussions with Torino for a possible loan move for Torreira. He has fallen down the pecking order following an injury-riddled season. If sealed, the move could also help the Gunners who are looking to bring in funds to boost their push for other targets.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has tested positive for COVID-19 AFP / Adrian DENNIS