Arsenal’s Injury Crisis Ahead of Key Fixtures
Arsenal’s quest for a treble could be undermined by an injury crisis that has struck five of their key players. On Monday, the club confirmed that William Saliba, Gabriel, Jurrien Timber, Eberechi Eze, and Leandro Trossard have all withdrawn from international duty due to injuries.
Injury Concerns for Key Players
Saliba and Gabriel were both initially called up to represent France and Brazil, respectively. However, both players have now been sent back to the club due to injuries. Saliba, who was set to meet Gabriel in the USA for World Cup preparations, has an ankle injury. Gabriel, on the other hand, missed out due to pain in his right knee.
Trossard, who had been part of the Belgium squad for their matches against the USA and Mexico, also withdrew from international duty due to injury. The forward’s absence leaves Arsenal with a potential hole in their attacking options.
Eberechi Eze’s Injury Blow
Eze, who had been called up to represent England, also withdrew from the squad due to a calf issue. He was replaced by Harvey Barnes, and missed out on England’s matches against Uruguay and Japan. Eze was already sidelined during Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City.
Timber’s Extended Absence
Timber, who had been named in the Netherlands squad for their games against Norway and Ecuador, will now miss the fixtures after a setback with a previous injury. The 26-year-old was forced to leave the pitch during a match against Everton on March 14, and he has since been replaced by Lutsharel Geertruida.
Arsenal’s Upcoming Fixtures
Despite the injury setbacks, Arsenal remains focused on their upcoming challenges. The Gunners face a crucial FA Cup quarter-final clash against Southampton on Saturday, April 4. Following that, they will travel to Portugal for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie against Sporting Lisbon on April 7. Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Bournemouth is scheduled for April 11.
Arteta’s Hopeful Return of Injured Players
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta will be hoping that his injured stars can return to full fitness in time for these important fixtures, as the team seeks to continue their pursuit of a treble.
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