Arteta's squad cut could see four Arsenal stars exit

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could put four of his senior stars up for transfer as he finalises the travelling squad for the Community Shield, a decision that reflects a pre‑season marked by limited fitness and a need to reshape the roster.

Four players facing exit

Fabio Vieira, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri have all been heavily linked with moves away from the Emirates Stadium. Their agents and interested clubs have been active, with Vieira’s representative working overtime to secure a departure.

Napoli continue to monitor the Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus, while Galatasaray have made an offer for Martinelli, who reportedly wishes to stay. Nwaneri’s name has surfaced in connection with several Bundesliga sides, suggesting a potential catalyst for an exit if he is omitted from the squad.

Squad trimming for the Shield

Arteta named a 26‑man group for a recent friendly against Como, then must cut it to 20 for the trip to Wales on Sunday, where Arsenal face Manchester City at the Millennium Stadium.

Injured centre‑backs William Saliba and Jurrien Timber are already excluded, while Martin Zubimendi, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are expected to travel. Nine players who featured against Como will not make the bench, a move that could hint at their future at the club.

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Goalkeepers Illan Meslier and Tommy Setford are left out, with David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga ahead. Young prospects Theo Julieene, Marli Salmon and Josh Ogunnaike also appear set to miss the journey.

Max Dowman, who has become a staple in the squad, may start due to limited training time for Saka and Noni Madueke, underscoring the depth challenges Arteta faces.

Alfie Cairns Culshaw, a football journalist covering the Premier League for GIVEMESPORT, published this story on Aug 16, 2026 at 7:35 AM GMT+1. He joined the company in May 2024, is an avid Arsenal fan and season‑ticket holder, and previously worked for SportBible covering Liverpool and Manchester United. He also creates YouTube content, runs a Football blog, and contributes to GiveMeSport, Sport Bible and other platforms.

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The final decision on the 20‑man travelling party will be made on the eve of the match, with exclusions likely to confirm the transfer rumours and shape Arsenal’s strategy for the new season.