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SOCCER

Zubimendi Nears Arsenal Return; Hincapie Still Needs More Time

Mikel Arteta will assess Zubimendi after Saturday’s training session, with Hincapie expected to need another week or two.

By TSP Staff
Martin Zubimendi during an Arsenal warm-up.
Martin Zubimendi warms up before Arsenal’s cup match at Ipswich on September 15, 2026. File photograph. · Credit: Hannah McKay / Reuters

Martin Zubimendi could return for Arsenal at Nottingham Forest on Sunday, while Piero Hincapie is expected to remain unavailable. Mikel Arteta gave the differing updates Friday after both players suffered ankle injuries in training last week, Reuters reported.

Arteta said Zubimendi looked better but would be assessed after another training session Saturday. He indicated Hincapie would probably need another week or two. Neither update amounts to a confirmed starting place.

Arsenal managed their midweek European assignment without them. TSP’s report on the Lille match describes the three-goal burst that secured a 3-0 Champions League victory after the double injury setback.

Sunday’s visit to the City Ground brings a different selection deadline, with the final training session still to come. Zubimendi’s progress offers Arsenal a possible midfield return, but managers and supporters should wait for the match squad before treating him as available. Hincapie’s longer expected recovery leaves the defensive decision on a different timetable, even though the two injuries originally emerged together.