Arsenal Winger Gabriel Martinelli Out for Over a Month Due to Hamstring Injury
Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli is set to miss more than a month of action after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle. This latest setback adds to the club’s woes as they continue to be without striker Gabriel Jesus for the entire season due to an ACL injury, and winger Bukayo Saka is not expected to return until mid-March at the earliest.
Despite attempts to bolster their forward line in January, Arsenal was unable to secure a new striker, leaving them with only Kai Havertz as a recognized option. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed disappointment over the transfer window, acknowledging the need for reinforcements. “We had a clear intention… to improve the squad with players who can do that. We haven’t achieved it,” Arteta stated.
As a result of Martinelli’s injury, the Gunners will need to adapt their attacking strategy, with options like Leo Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri, and Raheem Sterling likely taking on more significant roles. The team must ensure that their fit players remain healthy as they navigate a challenging schedule, including crucial Premier League matches against Leicester City, West Ham, and Nottingham Forest throughout February. Martinelli’s absence may also impact upcoming fixtures against Manchester United and Chelsea, as well as a vital Champions League match in early March.
Martinelli, who was forced off the field after just 37 minutes against Newcastle, has traveled with the squad to their warm-weather training camp in Dubai. However, he was not seen participating in training alongside Saka, although Ben White is back following knee surgery.
Arsenal currently sits second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by six points with a game in hand.
Upcoming Fixtures for Arsenal:
– Saturday, February 15: Leicester vs Arsenal – Premier League, kick-off 12:30 PM
– Saturday, February 22: Arsenal vs West Ham – Premier League, kick-off 3:00 PM
– Wednesday, February 26: Nottingham Forest vs Arsenal – Premier League, kick-off 7:30 PM
– Sunday, March 9: Manchester United vs Arsenal – Premier League, kick-off 4:30 PM
– Sunday, March 16: Arsenal vs Chelsea – Premier League, kick-off 3:00 PM
