Arsenal injury news has taken a dramatic turn as Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi are set to miss the Champions League clash against Lille after sustaining ankle injuries during a post-match warm-down. However, the Gunners have received a timely boost with William Saliba returning to full training.
Arteta Frustrated by Warm-Down Injuries
Mikel Arteta expressed his frustration after both Hincapié and Zubimendi picked up ankle injuries in the warm-down following Arsenal's win against Leeds on Saturday. The duo are due to undergo scans on Monday to determine the severity of the damage, but they will definitely miss Tuesday's Champions League game at the Emirates.
"We had a training session planned after the game for the players," Arteta explained. "They didn't have enough minutes to get everybody in the right rhythm and in two very unfortunate actions, we lost two players." The manager described the situation as "far from ideal" but dismissed suggestions he would alter the post-match routine.
Saliba Returns to Bolster Defense
In contrast to the injury blows, Arsenal have been handed a significant lift with the return of William Saliba. The French defender has been sidelined with a back injury but is now back in full training and could feature against Lille. Saliba's presence is crucial for the Gunners, who have struggled defensively in his absence.
Impact on Arsenal's Champions League Campaign
With Hincapié and Zubimendi out, Arteta will need to reshuffle his lineup. Both players were expected to feature against Lille having not started in the Premier League this season. Their absence leaves Arsenal thin in defense and midfield, but Saliba's return provides a timely boost.
| Player | Injury | Expected Return |
|---|---|---|
| Piero Hincapié | Ankle | Unknown (scans Monday) |
| Martín Zubimendi | Ankle | Unknown (scans Monday) |
| William Saliba | Back | Available |
- Hincapié and Zubimendi injured during warm-down after Leeds win.
- Both will miss Champions League game vs Lille.
- Saliba returns to training, could start.
- Arteta stands by post-match routine despite injuries.
FAQ
What happened to Hincapié and Zubimendi?
Both players sustained ankle injuries during a post-match warm-down after Arsenal's win over Leeds. They will undergo scans on Monday.
Will Saliba play against Lille?
Saliba has returned to full training and could feature against Lille, providing a defensive boost for Arsenal.
How long will Hincapié and Zubimendi be out?
The extent of their injuries will be determined after scans on Monday. Hincapié's injury is described as "a little bit more serious" by Arteta.
What This Means for Arsenal
Arsenal's injury woes could impact their Champions League aspirations. With Hincapié and Zubimendi out, Arteta may need to rely on squad depth. Saliba's return is a welcome relief, but the Gunners will be hoping for positive news from the scans.