Arsenal is put through a new injury concern just days before their Premier League encounter with Bournemouth this weekend. Star winger Gabriel Martinelli has undergone an MRI scan following discomfort in the lower right part of his calf while he was away for international duties with the Brazilian team.
Arsenal’s first-choice main winger for several weeks has been the young 23-year-old player. But after his late coming into the Brazil vs Chile match that was 2-1, Martinelli started complaining of discomfort. He took a precautionary MRI scan on Sunday night to evaluate his injuries. Martinelli will miss Brazil’s next World Cup qualifier against Peru on Tuesday night.
More Injuries On The List For Arsenal
Martinelli is the other possible casualty that Arsenal may sustain. But that is not the end of the list of rising injuries to be overcome. Captain Martin Odegaard has been out injured. And he has been missed for his inspirational leadership plus creativity in the midfield going into several matches recently. Supportive fans are looking forward to the update on when he returns to action.
Another influential player who has added to Arteta’s woes is Bukayo Saka. The youngster was taken off during England’s game with Greece on Thursday. Similar to Martinelli, he is very instrumental in Arsenal’s attack. And fans would not want to even think of him walking off the pitch injured. Fortunately, his injury does not seem that bad and he should return to the field soon.
Saka’s Injury Update
Saka’s injury has been a hot topic among Arsenal fans. According to interim manager Lee Carsley, Saka was close to playing but did not want to risk furthering the injury. He added that Saka is in good spirits and should be out and about soon. Fans of Arsenal would look forward to his quick recovery since he is one of the most powerful players on the ground for them.
Despite these concerns, Arsenal are determined to continue their unbeaten start to the Premier League season. They sit in third place just one point behind leaders Liverpool and level with Manchester City. But injuries might be tough on the Gunners to maintain their stay on top.
What Does Martinelli Mean To Arsenal
One of the fan’s favorite players at Arsenal is Martinelli. He boasts good work rate, talent, and panache, which makes him a consistent threat to the opposing team’s defense. Loss of him for even a short period will dent Arsenal’s rhythm of attack as Saka and Odegaard also nurse injuries.
Arsenal will test their depth with attack in the upcoming matches. Mikel Arteta will be forced to look for the younger or not so experienced names while replacing those set to leave. The team, though, has proved this season to be very resilient, and hopes they can get through this period with all intact.
Arsenal Vs. Bournemouth
The Gunners can ill afford to drop all three points as they head to Bournemouth next week. Every point counts here, as they are looking for the top spot in the Premier League. Bournemouth, so far, have had a shabby season and will be looking for a victory to sting Arsenal. But, on current form and quality, the Gunners should have it better against their opposition.
If this absence of Martinelli and Saka impacts the training, Arsenal would have to change their strategy. Arteta might look sideways to try controlling midfield and defense closely so that he could hope that the other attacking players may deliver brighter moments.
What Lies Ahead For Arsenal
Injuries are part of football, but Arsenal will need to manage their squad carefully. A long season awaits, and with many crucial games ahead, it would have been perfect had Arteta got the three players back quickly for some action on the pitch. Fans also have hope that these injuries are not long-term and that the players return to the pitch soon.
Ahead of the game at Bournemouth, the Gunners are all too aware that it is time to stay focused and ensure that their unbeaten runs continue. With many key players missing, Arsenal will show its strength in depth, which is a proof that they can actually play at the top. The coming weeks will test the solidity of the team and their determination. But obviously, they are more than adequate for the challenge.
Conclusion
Arsenal is indeed at an underdog status as they head into the Bournemouth match with the absence of key players Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka. Of course, Arsenal have been great so far this season. Fans would certainly love this trend to continue in terms of keeping that unbeaten run in the league. But the greater challenge now for the Gunners is to stay in the title run.
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