Hincapie Returns as Arsenal Prepares for Everton Clash

Arsenal’s matchday ritual told its own story on Saturday morning – and it was good news for Piero Hincapie.

The defender, recently sidelined, joined 20 teammates on the pre-match walk ahead of the Premier League clash with Everton, a strong indication he is set to be included in the final squad at the Emirates Stadium later in the afternoon.

With 21 players involved and only 20 spots available, Mikel Arteta faces just one straightforward call. Premier League rules allow nine substitutes, so only a single player must drop out, and that is almost certain to be one of the three goalkeepers: David Raya, Kepa Arrizabalaga or Illan Meslier.

The upshot is clear. Every outfield player who took part in the walk is effectively on standby for selection.

Hincapie’s presence will be the headline for many Arsenal supporters, but he was not the only recent absentee stepping back into the fold. Martin Zubimendi, who has been nursing an ankle problem, also walked with the group. His involvement is less of a surprise given he has already made the bench against both Nottingham Forest and Bayern Munich, yet it still underlines the growing depth at Arteta’s disposal.

Cristhian Mosquera, another player still waiting for his first minutes since returning from injury, was there as well, keeping his bid for a competitive return on track.

There were notable absentees. Bukayo Saka, Christos Tzolis and William Saliba did not take part, exactly as anticipated, their situations unchanged. In contrast, academy talent Max Dowman did make the cut for the morning stroll, a sign he remains firmly in the manager’s thoughts as a forward option.

Defensive Group

The defensive group on the walk carried a powerful look: Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Hincapie, Mosquera, Riccardo Calafiori, Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes all present and available.

Midfield

In midfield, Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Zubimendi, Mikel Merino and Bruno Guimaraes formed a technically gifted core.

Attacking Unit

Up front, Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze and Dowman rounded out an attacking unit with variety and firepower.

One goalkeeper to omit, a full slate of outfielders ready to go, and a key defender seemingly back in the mix. For Arsenal, the walk suggested something simple: against Everton, Arteta will have options everywhere.