On Friday, we’ll receive updates from 13 Premier League managers as we approach the early deadline for Gameweek 9.
Among the top-flight managers anticipated to provide information is Mikel Arteta, who is expected to share updates on Bukayo Saka (£10.0m). However, don’t get your hopes too high…
As is customary, we’ll keep you informed of the essential Fantasy Premier League (FPL) news on this page.
This article is ‘live’ and will be continuously updated as manager quotes come in. Make sure to refresh for the latest developments!
For highlights from the seven press conferences that have already taken place, check out our Thursday summary here.
GAMEWEEK 9: FRIDAY’S KEY TEAM NEWS UPDATES
- Arsenal: Saka “has done a bit of training,” Calafiori requires more tests, Saliba suspended
- Tottenham Hotspur: Son “still not right” and “unlikely” to face Palace
- Manchester City: De Bruyne, Doku, Grealish + Walker all unavailable
- Liverpool: Jota ruled out for the Arsenal match, doubts over Bradley + Chiesa, update on Alisson
- Newcastle United: Wilson not fit to return, no new injury issues
- Manchester United: Ten Hag optimistic about Evans, seven players may miss out
- Aston Villa: No injuries reported, Philogene suspended
- Chelsea: All players fit, two return from suspension
- Brentford: Jensen passed fit, five players still sidelined
- Wolverhampton Wanderers: Johnstone is back in training
- Crystal Palace: Glasner anticipates a consistent squad, Doucoure has just returned to training
- West Ham United: Kudus begins
- Manchester City: A ban has been imposed, but there are no updates regarding injuries
- Bournemouth: Scott is out for months following surgery, and Sinisterra will miss the match against Villa
GAMEWEEK 9: PRESS CONFERENCE TIMES ON FRIDAY
*Following the initial list, Enzo Maresca and Erik ten Hag have been confirmed to address the media at 1pm and 1.30pm, respectively. All times are in BST.
ARSENAL
Bukayo Saka (hamstring) and Jurrien Timber (muscle) have engaged in “a bit of training” before the upcoming match against Liverpool on Sunday.
Moments after Sky Sports News reported that the duo had not been seen at the Arsenal training facility, Mikel Arteta engaged in his usual weekly strategizing.
“He has done some training on the grass; how far we can push him by Sunday remains uncertain. The good news is we have an extra day this week. We will see.” – Mikel Arteta on Bukayo Saka
“Timber has participated in his first session, where he could be involved. He’s been sidelined for a while, and we expected his recovery to take longer than it has. We just have to wait and evaluate the situation.” – Mikel Arteta on Jurrien Timber
Riccardo Calafiori (knee) is less likely to participate, however.
“He requires further tests. He underwent some assessments yesterday and will continue testing today. From there, we’ll gain clarity on his condition. Previously, we thought he was in a bad state, but he ended up playing just two or three days later! So we’ll have to see how it unfolds.” – Mikel Arteta on Riccardo Calafiori
Martin Odegaard (ankle), Kieran Tierney (hamstring), and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee) will remain out, while William Saliba is serving a one-match suspension.
TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Son Heung-min’s return from injury appears to be short-lived, as Ange Postecoglou mentioned that it is “unlikely” he will be fit to compete against Crystal Palace.
“Sonny is still not feeling right; he’s not at 100%. He won’t participate in training today, making it unlikely for the weekend match, but we’ll assess him further after that.” – Ange Postecoglou
Djed Spence (groin) is anticipated to be back in full training by next week.
The Lilywhites, at least, do not face any significant concerns following Thursday’s victory against AZ Alkmaar. Wilson Odobert (hamstring) made his return as a substitute in that match.
“Last night was all good, no issues at all. Some of the boys are experiencing a bit of fatigue since they haven’t played for a while, but everything is fine.” – Ange Postecoglou
In addition to injury updates, there has been a lot of discussion regarding James Maddison. The playmaker was substituted at halftime during Gameweek 9, and his appearance in the starting lineup with the second string on Thursday raised eyebrows about his playing time on Sunday.
“I’ve made the point that it’s not that Madders didn’t perform well [against West Ham]. In fact, I believe he played quite well in the first half; it was simply a tactical adjustment I thought was necessary for the team to secure a win.
“I know players want to be on the field all the time, but I was pleased with his performance last night. His leadership was commendable, and he was positive on the ball, providing creativity and discipline when we needed it.
“He’s a vice-captain and one of our leaders, and I thought he showed up and played well last night—and he played well over the weekend, too.” – Ange Postecoglou on James Maddison
MANCHESTER CITY
Kevin De Bruyne (thigh), Kyle Walker (knee), Jack Grealish (unknown), and Jeremy Doku (unknown) will not be available for the match against Southampton on Saturday.
“No, not yet.” – Pep Guardiola when asked about the possibility of Kevin De Bruyne or Kyle Walker returning this weekend
“I’m unsure. Hopefully, he can come back soon, but I don’t have a timeline. I wish I could provide an answer, but I just don’t know.” – Pep Guardiola on Kevin De Bruyne’s recovery
“No.” – Pep Guardiola regarding the fitness of Jeremy Doku or Jack Grealish
Rodri (knee) and Oscar Bobb (leg) are also long-term absentees.
In addition to discussing injuries, Pep Guardiola also addressed Phil Foden‘s current form during Friday’s press conference.
“I’m not at all worried about how far he is from last season’s form because I know that when he’s fit, he will regain it. He’s a natural talent, and he will find his rhythm. The first goal against Sparta Praha illustrated Phil’s incredible ability, as he resolved the game for himself.
“Over a long career—which Phil has already been building—there will always be ups and downs. It’s important to manage these short setbacks swiftly. They’re human beings, and we need to be patient, allowing them to feel supported during these moments. Everything is going well.
“Sooner or later…
“I’m pleased to know that he feels well because ultimately, it’s up to him.” – Pep Guardiola on Phil Foden
LIVERPOOL
Diogo Jota is set to miss the trip to Arsenal this weekend due to a rib injury sustained in Gameweek 8.
Federico Chiesa and Conor Bradley (both with unspecified injuries) are also considered doubtful for the match on Sunday.
“I believe they feel fine, but that doesn’t translate to being ready to play for us this weekend.
“Federico may join us for training today or tomorrow – however, Diogo will definitely be unavailable. As for Conor Bradley, we will see if he can practice with us tomorrow.” – Arne Slot
Alisson (hamstring) and Harvey Elliott (foot) continue to remain sidelined.
“He’s making good progress, as we anticipated, but it’s not a quick recovery process.
“Assessing an injury can be complex. I believe the best way to evaluate an injury is at the conclusion of the recovery phase, and we’re not there yet.
“Thus, I can’t provide a timeline for his return, but don’t expect him to play in the cup against Brighton or next week.” – Arne Slot on Alisson
The brief turnaround between the midweek European match and the weekend Premier League fixture might impact Slot’s team selection for Gameweek 9, yet the Liverpool manager emphasized the benefit of an extra day for recovery that the Sunday match affords.
“This is part of our lives, and the players are accustomed to it, whether they are competing in the Champions League or, as last season, in the Europa League. They are aware of the challenges, and they know how to manage their bodies, what actions to take immediately after a game, and how to prepare effectively in the following days.
“We have a three-day gap this time, which is longer than what we had before the Leipzig match, and it’s also longer than what we will have before the Brighton match. Unfortunately for us, in these three games, we have one day less for recovery compared to the three teams we will face. However, this is also a part of the season and our lives, and I believe these players are experienced enough, receiving excellent support from a fantastic staff, to be physically prepared. My role is also to equip them tactically for the game.” – Arne Slot on the congested schedule
NEWCASTLE UNITED
Callum Wilson (back) has yet to play this season and was close to a comeback, but in one of the least surprising updates, the striker’s recovery has hit a setback.
He will not return before Gameweek 11.
“We will be without Callum for the next three games for sure. He has experienced some tightness in his body and hasn’t felt that he could push through to that final recovery stage that he needs. He trained with us and showed promise, but we are very cautious with Callum, as is he, regarding any reactions to his conditioning work.
“He doesn’t have a specific injury; it’s just that he’s not prepared to return yet.” – Eddie Howe on Callum Wilson
Additionally, Kieran Trippier (hamstring), Jamaal Lascell
Kieran Trippier (knee) and Sven Botman (knee) continue to be unavailable. According to Howe, Trippier is expected to return after the upcoming international break.
Matt Targett has not been seen since suffering an eczema flare-up in late September.
Martin Dubravka (knee) has resumed training on the pitch, and the Magpies report no new concerns.
“I don’t believe we have any new issues. Dan Burn had an ankle concern last week, but he played in the match and performed well. I think we’re in a good position.” – Eddie Howe
MANCHESTER UNITED
Kobbie Mainoo (muscle), Harry Maguire (muscle), Leny Yoro (foot), Tyrell Malacia (knee), Luke Shaw (calf), and Mason Mount (knock/head) are all likely to miss the upcoming match.
Jonny Evans might return after being absent for Thursday’s draw with Fenerbahce. Bruno Fernandes did not participate in Turkey due to a suspension.
“We expect Bruno back from suspension, and hopefully Jonny Evans will also return.” – Erik ten Hag
Antony was injured during the midweek UEFA Europa League game. He appeared only as a late substitute before being taken off on a stretcher; he was later seen on crutches and wearing a protective boot.
“I haven’t seen it myself; I can only share what was communicated to me by the doctor and physio, based on what they observed.
“I need to review the video before commenting further.” – Erik ten Hag on Antony
ASTON VILLA
Aston Villa has no injury concerns ahead of their match against Bournemouth.
However, Jaden Philogene will not participate in Gameweek 9 due to suspension.
“All players are available except for Jaden, who is suspended. Two young players, Lamare Bogarde and Sil Swinkels, are playing with the under-21s today.
“The rest of the squad is training daily with us and is ready to compete.” – Unai Emery
CHELSEA
No updates have been provided by Enzo Maresca regarding team news, but there are currently no injury concerns for Chelsea.
Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana are back from their respective suspensions.
BRENTFORD
Mathias Jensen (calf) will be included in the Bees’ squad this weekend.
“He will be part of the squad, which is very encouraging. He has trained all week and looks in good shape.” – Thomas Frank on Mathias Jensen
Rico Henry (knee), Igor Thiago (knee), Gustavo Nunes (knee), and Ellery Balcombe (hand) are still sidelined.
Injury concerns persist as Rico Henry (back), Aaron Hickey (hamstring), and Josh Dasilva (knee) are still sidelined – though progress is being made for the first three.
“Rico is getting closer, but not ready for [Ipswich]. I would hesitate to say we are being cautious; we simply want to do this right. With a player who has been out for an extended period, it is crucial to ensure he is fully prepared before stepping onto the pitch.”
“I would love to make an announcement today, but it would be best if I wait for a forthcoming press conference to declare: ‘Tomorrow, Rico will be available.’”
“Both [Thiago and Nunes] are currently running on the pitch, albeit not with the rest of the team. That’s a positive sign.” – Thomas Frank
WOLVERHAMPTON WANDERERS
Gary O’Neil mentioned on Friday that Sam Johnstone has participated in training “quite a bit” this week after missing Gameweek 8 due to a minor adductor injury.
The manager of Wolves stated he is “very clear” about which goalkeeper will start against Brighton.
Hwang Hee-chan (ankle), Yerson Mosquera (knee), Boubacar Traore (knee), Sasa Kalajdzic (knee), and Enso Gonzalez (knee) all continue to be unavailable.
CRYSTAL PALACE
Oliver Glasner anticipates having the same squad available as last weekend.
Cheick Doucoure (toe) has only participated in one training session with his teammates, making him likely to miss out again.
Chadi Riad (knee), Chris Richards (hamstring), and Matheus Franca (groin) remain out of action.
WEST HAM UNITED
Mohammed Kudus begins a three-match suspension after his red card for violent conduct last weekend.
No updates on fitness were provided by Julen Lopetegui, but it is believed that Niclas Fullkrug (Achilles) remains injured.
BOURNEMOUTH
Alex Scott underwent surgery on Thursday to address a meniscus injury he sustained earlier in the week. The midfielder is expected to be out for several months following the procedure.
“Definitely more than six weeks. Six weeks would be the timeframe if they simply removed the meniscus. If they repair it, a longer recovery is needed. Now, he will require some time away from physical activity, so it will take even longer – but I can’t specify how much.” – Andoni Iraola on Alex Scott
Luis Sinisterra will also miss the trip to Aston Villa but is expected to return within the next week or two.
“Sini is not traveling; it’s not a serious issue, but he had some problems after the game against Arsenal. He should be available next week, and if not for [Manchester] City, then definitely for Brentford.” – Andoni Iraola on Luis Sinisterra
