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The international break is underway, and Arsenal’s stars have either jetted around the globe to represent their nations or taken a well-earned pause from competitive action.
With no fixtures over the weekend due to FA Cup action, the North London side has had time to deliberate the best way to occupy their time in preparation for their upcoming match against Manchester City when Premier League competition returns.
Currently sitting one point ahead of the division’s champions and topping the table ahead of Liverpool on goal difference, Mikel Arteta’s side will have to hit the ground running if they hope to go one step better than last year and overcome Pep Guardiola’s men.
The next 10 days will be the final opportunity for the staff to sit back, take stock, and plan before the onslaught of the end of the season.
One player not joining up with his international side is Thomas Partey. The Ghanaian star will miss Nigeria and Uganda matches to continue his return from injury at Arsenal’s London Colney training ground.
Having only managed 41 minutes of play since August, Arteta and the team have carefully managed Partey’s progress, with the midfielder featuring from the bench twice in March.
Ghana’s FA suggested that Partey “asked to be excused from the game to gain full fitness following recent injuries.”
Whether he can build up enough fitness in that time to play a significant role against City at the end of the month remains to be seen.
In other news, Mikel Arteta was spotted in Spain, taking the opportunity to depart North London and enjoy some time in his native country.
He was seen at the Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium as Real Madrid Under-19s hosted their Atletico Madrid counterparts.
Arteta had the chance to observe the work of former Liverpool stars Fernando Torres and Alvaro Arbeloa, who led Atletico and Real, respectively.
Torres came away victorious with a 2-0 victory. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s academy has seen some movement.
Goalkeeper Brian Okonkwo, brother of Gunners stopper Arthur, who is on loan at Wrexham, is set to enjoy some time away from the club.
The 18-year-old has joined Isthmian Premier League side Cheshunt on a work experience loan for the remainder of the season.
Okonkwo will continue to train with Arsenal and fulfill match duties with the non-league side to continue his progression.
He has previously enjoyed stints with Hitchin Town and Leatherhead.
