Leon Goretzka was not included in Aston Villa's squad for the defeat to Arsenal due to fitness concerns, manager Unai Emery has confirmed. The Germany international joined Villa on a free transfer last week, and although Emery was satisfied with his condition, he was not named in the matchday squad for Monday night's encounter with the Gunners.
Emery clarified that no injury was involved in the decision. Instead, Goretzka requires additional training sessions to reach the desired level of match fitness. Speaking after the match, Emery said: "He needs more sessions on the training ground to get his fitness and reach the level we want."
Emery Hopeful of Hull Debut
The Villa boss expressed optimism that Goretzka could be available for the upcoming fixture against Hull City next Saturday. "He is good, and hopefully on Saturday, after three days of training, he should be ready," Emery added.
In Goretzka's absence, Ross Barkley partnered Boubacar Kamara in central midfield against Arsenal. The pairing was necessitated by the suspension of Joao Gomes, who was sent off for violent conduct during Villa's opening match of the season against Brighton at the Amex Stadium.
Suspension and Upcoming Fixture
Gomes' red card means he will also miss Villa's next two league matches against Hull and Nottingham Forest. The Brazilian's absence leaves Emery with limited midfield options as the team seeks their first result of the season.
Villa will travel to the MKM Stadium on Saturday evening for a 5:30pm kickoff against Hull City. The home side, managed by Sergej Jakirović, have won their first two matches of the campaign without conceding a goal, presenting a stern test for Villa's search for their first points.
