Arsenal is on the brink of a significant injury crisis as Gabriel Martinelli becomes the latest player to face fitness concerns. Following an MRI scan, it was revealed that the Brazilian winger is dealing with a minor calf muscle edema, forcing him to undergo physiotherapy treatment with Brazil’s medical team. This comes at a time when Mikel Arteta’s squad is already struggling with several injuries.
Mounting Injury Concerns for Arsenal
Martinelli’s injury adds to the growing list of key players on the sidelines, including Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard, who have both been absent recently due to their respective injuries. Saka, suffering from a hamstring strain, was pulled out of the England squad, while Odegaard and Oleksandr Zinchenko have been out since September. Ben White and Jurrien Timber have also been missing in recent matches due to injuries.
Adding to the concerns, both Kai Havertz and Thomas Partey withdrew from international duties, further depleting the squad ahead of crucial matches. With Arsenal scheduled to face Bournemouth, Preston, Newcastle, Inter Milan, and Chelsea in the upcoming weeks, the club’s depth will be tested as they navigate a challenging period.
Hope for a Quick Return
Despite the growing injury list, there is hope that Martinelli’s issue may be minor, as he has not yet flown back to London. Brazil’s national team does not play until later in the week, which may give the Arsenal forward enough time to recover before returning to Premier League action. However, should the injury prove more serious, Arsenal may have to rely on other options, including Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Jesus, to cover in wide positions.
Challenging Weeks Ahead for the Gunners
With several key players injured, Arsenal faces a tough period with limited recovery time between matches. The Gunners will play at home only twice before the international break in November and must endure trips to Newcastle and Inter Milan in addition to Premier League fixtures. This period will be critical in maintaining Arsenal’s momentum across multiple competitions.
