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Arsenal have been handed an injury blow prior to their Champions League match against Dinamo Zagreb.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the team’s injury situation, revealing a new concern while also delivering some positive news. The Gunners have been hit hard by injuries this season, but the return of Riccardo Calafiori and Ethan Nwaneri has provided a much-needed boost.
Calafiori and Nwaneri, who have both been sidelined with injuries, returned to full training ahead of Arsenal’s recent Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb. Arteta confirmed that both players are available for selection, which is a significant boost for the squad. Calafiori, who has been out with a muscle problem, and Nwaneri, who picked up a muscular issue against Brighton, are now back in contention.
However, the good news was tempered by the revelation that young defender Myles Lewis-Skelly will require a scan on an injury picked up during the match against Aston Villa. Arteta confirmed that Lewis-Skelly felt something during the game and couldn’t continue, necessitating a scan to determine the extent of the injury. The Arsenal manager expressed concern about the situation, stating that they will know more once the scan results are available.
In the absence of Lewis-Skelly, Arteta has had to rely on other players to fill the gap. Oleksandr Zinchenko was picked at left back against Dinamo Zagreb and delivered a composed performance, making important interceptions and clearances. Arteta praised Zinchenko’s defensive concentration and experience, which will be crucial as Arsenal navigates a busy schedule.
Arsenal will be hoping that Lewis-Skelly’s injury is not serious and that he can return to the squad soon. The Gunners are already dealing with several other injuries, including William Saliba’s hamstring issue, which has kept him out of recent matches.
Arteta remains optimistic about Saliba’s recovery, stating that the French defender is evolving well and could be back in time for the next Premier League game against Manchester City.
While the return of Calafiori and Nwaneri is a positive development for Arsenal, the new injury concern surrounding Lewis-Skelly highlights the ongoing challenges Arteta faces in managing his squad. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Gunners aim to maintain their strong position in both the Premier League and the Champions League.
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