MX23RW : Thursday, August 9 14:08:21
Aug 12, 2018 at 4pm UK at ​Emirates Stadium
Arsenal
vs.
Man CityManchester City

Unai Emery: 'Nacho Monreal, Ainsley Maitland-Niles could start against Manchester City'

Emery ponders Monreal, Maitland-Niles starts
© Reuters
Unai Emery believes that Nacho Monreal still has a chance to face Manchester City in Arsenal's Premier League opener but also says Ainsley Maitland-Niles is in contention.

Unai Emery has claimed that Nacho Monreal still has a chance to face Manchester City in Arsenal's Premier League opener.

The full-back has not featured in any of his side's pre-season matches and is also suffering from a slight knock.

However, with Sead Kolasinac ruled out for eight to 10 weeks because of a knee injury, Emery is facing a selection headache at left-back, with youngster Ainsley Maitland-Niles also in contention.

"[Monreal] arrived with no big injuries, but his knee has a little problem and he's training everyday but not with us," Emery told Sky Sports News.

"He's doing work alone with the physical coach, and running, and we think maybe on Tuesday he can start training with the team. We don't want the injuries but it's one of those things that you can't help.

"We have players like Nacho, but he arrived late from the World Cup and also has a small injury. It's difficult for him to arrive [to fitness] for the match against Manchester City.

"For us we are trying to help Ainsley play in this position and, for me, I want to give confidence to all my players in their positions, then he can play in this position as best as possible. My confidence in all my players is great."

Monreal started 26 Premier League games for Arsenal in Arsene Wenger's final campaign at the helm.

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Nacho Monreal in action for Arsenal on April 22, 2018
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