Arsenal are just a few games away from a mid-season break, hopeful that they can end the opening period of the campaign top of the table. With 10 wins from 12 games they currently hold that lofty position, though champions Manchester City are on their trail in second.
It's led to plenty of discussion surrounding the possibility of a title challenge this time around, with other sides failing to stand out so far. Mikel Arteta has played coy on their chances thus far, though the break for the World Cup could prove to be a key marker in any such push.
It also represents a different type of challenge for all managers, who will have to do with this type of scenario for the first time ever mid-season. While some will be away with their respective nations, others may not be involved and the challenge will be keeping them fit and available throughout.
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"We will have friendly matches for sure," Arteta said when asked about his preparation during the tournament. "We are arranging them. We need to because we’re going to have 10, 11, 12 players here and we need to have that competition."
With a number of stars jetting off with their international goals in mind, the rest could use the time to impress the manager and earn a place in his side going forward. With that said, here's a look at five players who could do just that over the winter international break.
Kieran Tierney
Left-back Kieran Tierney has struggled to work his way into Arteta's plans this season, often playing from the bench or in cup competitions when he is called upon. Even without a guaranteed starter on the left flank, the Spaniard appears to have made his mind up lately as to whether he has a place in the side.
Some of it could be down to the Scotsman learning a new role, something that requires a new skillset and discards parts of his attacking forays he has been known for. Without participating in the World Cup, he could look to force himself back into the side after the break.
Oleksandr Zinchenko
Signing from Manchester City in the summer, Oleksandr Zinchenko has impressed in an Arsenal shirt, playing mostly as an inverted full-back on the left. His technical ability and awareness has made him perfect for the role, which was something he had developed in his time at the Etihad Stadium.
However, injuries have plagued his early stages with the Gunners and the rest and training could give him the proper build-up needed to get him back in action and fully fit once again.
Emile Smith Rowe
A sorely missed member of the squad so far this season, Emile Smith Rowe has been absent from the Arsenal squad after undergoing surgery to a groin injury. The England international is set to miss out on a possible return before the break, but it could be the point he needs to make a steady return to action.
Marquinhos
Brazilian youngster Marquinhos signed in the summer and after a few first-team appearances, he has been on the fringe of the squad with more game time for the youth team. The 19-year-old could earn himself more minutes should he continue to develop at an impressive rate during the World Cup.
Eddie Nketiah
Eddie Nketiah is yet to be handed a start in the league this season, often used as a Europa League option by Arteta instead. With the striker reportedly declining the chance to play for Ghana at the World Cup and with an England call-up extremely unlikely, the youngster could work on being involved in the Arsenal first-team on their return.
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