Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may have to consider an alternative attacking arrangement when his side travel to Anfield to face Liverpool this weekend, with limited options available on the right wing creating a selection headache ahead of the Premier League encounter.

According to the Evening Standard on Saturday, October 31, 2026, Bukayo Saka will miss the fixture because of a quad injury, while teenage winger Max Dowman is beginning a three-match suspension. Arsenal’s attempt to overturn Dowman’s red card, received during the Carabao Cup defeat to Fleetwood Town, was unsuccessful, further reducing Arteta’s available choices.

Noni Madueke is currently the only recognised right winger available to the Arsenal manager, but his participation remains uncertain because of an ankle problem. The England international missed the midweek cup match and is still undergoing fitness assessments ahead of Sunday’s trip.

Arteta provided a mixed update during his preparations for the Liverpool game, confirming that Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori and Christos Tzolis had returned to training on Friday and were expected to be available. Madueke, however, requires further assessment before the club can determine whether he is ready to play.

The Arsenal manager indicated that a final decision would depend on the winger’s ability to complete Saturday’s training session without difficulties. His fitness could have a significant influence on the team’s attacking setup.

Madueke has produced encouraging displays since the previous international break, demonstrating his ability to operate on either side of the attack. He also caused problems for Everton and delivered the cross that helped Arsenal recover during their match against Leeds earlier this month.

If he fails to recover in time, Arteta could consider deploying Tzolis on the right despite the Greek international being more accustomed to playing on the opposite flank. The forward has recently returned to full training after suffering a hamstring injury while representing Greece on October 1.

Starting Tzolis against Liverpool would be a considerable decision because he has only just resumed training following his absence. Nevertheless, his previous experience on the right could make him a useful alternative. During his time at Club Brugge, he operated in that position and scored against Atletico Madrid in last season’s Champions League.

The 26 right-wing appearances recorded across his career also provide Arteta with a reason to consider him for the role if necessary.

Kai Havertz could offer another solution, particularly if the manager prefers a more flexible attacking arrangement. The German could begin from the right, move into central areas when Arsenal have possession and contribute defensively when Liverpool push forward.

With Saka injured and Dowman suspended, Arsenal’s right-wing situation remains delicate. Madueke’s recovery and Arteta’s assessment of the available alternatives could ultimately determine the attacking formation selected for the Anfield fixture.