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Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal will subject new acquisition Bruno Guimarães to a late fitness assessment ahead of Friday's Premier League curtain-raiser against Coventry City.
Arsenal spent $101 million (£75 million) to secure Guimarães from Newcastle United and saw him feature for 45 minutes each in a preseason friendly against Como and the Community Shield triumph over Manchester City.
As he made his way back from the dressing room last weekend, Guimarães was spotted with ice packed around his right thigh, raising immediate concerns about his availability heading into the new campaign. Although Arteta downplayed the issue, he declined to confirm whether the Brazilian would feature on Friday.
"Let's see how he is," the characteristically guarded Arteta said. "He's progressing really well but let's see for tomorrow."
How Arsenal Could Line Up Without Guimarães
Fortunately for Arsenal, their midfield options remain plentiful.
Club skipper Martin Ødegaard has earned the right to continue in the advanced midfield role following an impressive display against City, while Arteta has no shortage of choices for the deeper positions behind the Norwegian.
Young Myles Lewis-Skelly is another player deserving of game time, though the academy product could find himself squeezed out by the senior talent surrounding him. Martín Zubimendi and Declan Rice both came on as substitutes last weekend to build their fitness after lengthy World Cup runs, with Arteta confirming both are "ready to be involved" here.
The adaptable Mikel Merino is also in contention after having his final months of last season hampered by a foot problem.
While uncertainty surrounds Guimarães, Arsenal know they will certainly be without defensive pair William Saliba and Jurriën Timber. Arteta is optimistic that Saliba could return following the international break in September, while right back Timber may be available somewhat sooner.
"I said in the next few weeks," Arteta stressed regarding Timber. "He's not training with the group yet."
Friday will also arrive too early for imminent signing Ezri Konsa, as his $69.4 million transfer from Aston Villa is not expected to be finalized in time for the fixture.
"We are very active in the market, I think I mentioned that a few days ago," Arteta added. "The ambition is to strengthen the squad.
"We have a very specific need in the backline, particularly with Wilo's [Saliba] long-term injury and the fact that we're short of another defender — that's clear. So we're working to address that area. When we're ready, we'll make an announcement."