Arteta faces a difficult task against Monaco due to injuries, absences, and other issues.

Mikel Arteta is facing a defensive crisis ahead of Arsenal's crucial Champions League clash with Monaco. Multiple injuries have hit the Gunners squad, leaving the manager with limited options.

Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey were notable absentees from training on Tuesday, adding to the club's injury woes. Gabriel, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Kieran Tierney are also struggling with fitness issues.

Despite the injury crisis, there is a glimmer of hope for Arsenal fans. Kieran Tierney, who has been sidelined for over a year, is nearing a return to action and could be available for selection. The Scottish left-back has been working hard to regain fitness and is eager to make his mark on the team.

Arteta has been forced to experiment with different defensive combinations this season, with players like Partey and Timber being deployed out of position. The manager has praised the adaptability of his squad but acknowledged the challenges they face.

"We have to manage a lot of players," Arteta said. "Some of them won't be fit for tomorrow, some of them are still doubts. We have 24 hours to make those decisions. Hopefully, we make the right ones."

As Arsenal prepares to face Monaco, they will need to dig deep and find a way to overcome their injury problems. With a place in the knockout stages of the Champions League up for grabs, the Gunners will be hoping to secure a positive result.