Noni Madueke is set for medical checks after limping off against Manchester City, with concerns his injury could be serious.
Madueke picks up knee injury against Man City
Arsenal fans were left scratching their heads when Noni Madueke failed to return for the second half against Man City. The winger looked lively in the opening 45 minutes. But, he was forced off with what Mikel Arteta later described as a “problem.”
Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka stepped in after the break. But, the focus quickly turned to Madueke. He has only recently made the switch from Chelsea in a surprise summer move. Many questioned the need for him with Saka already starring on the right. Yet, Arteta’s decision looked justified once injuries began piling up. With Saka only just back from an injury, Madueke’s knock could not have come at a worse time.
The Evening Standard reports that Madueke will undergo scans to discover the full extent of the injury. Early rumours point toward a potential ACL issue. That would sideline him for months and strip Arsenal of valuable attacking depth. For a player earning £187,500 a week and finally starting to win over fans, the timing is brutal.
Arsenal braced for worst-case scenario
If the medical reports confirm an ACL blow, Madueke would likely miss a huge part of the PL. That will leave the Gunners short of options in the wings.
The club may even be pushed into exploring the January market depending on the diagnosis. The fans will be hoping it turns out be a minor blow. The upcoming international break could give him the recovery window he needs.
For Madueke, the setback stings even more after recently catching the eye of England boss Thomas Tuchel. He was beginning to show he belongs at the top level, but now faces a nervous wait on scan results.
Author’s Opinion:
Madueke’s injury is a cruel twist just as he was finding his feet. Arsenal’s season could hinge on how serious this turns out to be, making the medical report one of the most important updates of Arteta’s campaign.
