Arsenal's Injury Woes Mount with Eze Sidelined for Up to Six Weeks
Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow with the news that playmaker Eberechi Eze could be unavailable for between four and six weeks due to a calf injury. This setback comes at a critical juncture in the season, adding to a growing list of fitness concerns for Mikel Arteta's squad.
Eze's Injury Timeline Emerges
The 27-year-old midfielder sustained the injury during Arsenal's victory over Bayer Leverkusen, forcing him to miss the Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City. Initially, Arteta provided a vague update, stating the club would need to wait for scan results in six or seven days. However, BBC Sport now reports that club sources believe Eze faces a prolonged absence of up to six weeks.
This development led to Eze withdrawing from the England squad for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, with the problem appearing more severe than initially anticipated. His absence compounds Arsenal's injury crisis, as five other first-team players have also pulled out of international duty.
International Break Withdrawals Pile Up
Arsenal's injury list has expanded significantly following the Carabao Cup final. Key players missing international action include:
- Leandro Trossard – Withdrawn from the Belgium squad despite playing 82 minutes at Wembley.
- Gabriel Magalhaes – Pulled out of the Brazil squad.
- William Saliba – Withdrawn from the France squad.
- Jurrien Timber – Unavailable for the Netherlands.
- Martin Odegaard – Missing Norway's games to focus on recovery from a knee injury.
There is some positive news regarding Odegaard, who is expected to return after the international break following a month out. The Arsenal captain is prioritizing his club's upcoming fixtures over national team commitments.
Crucial Fixtures Loom for Injury-Hit Gunners
Arsenal face a demanding schedule upon the season's resumption, with key matches in multiple competitions:
- FA Cup quarter-final against Championship side Southampton on April 4.
- Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting Lisbon.
- Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
Arteta may consider rotating his squad for the Southampton match, particularly given the Premier League remains Arsenal's top priority. The Gunners currently hold a nine-point lead over Manchester City, though City have a game in hand with nine matches remaining.
Silver Linings Amid the Gloom
While six Arsenal players are unavailable internationally, defender Ben White has returned to the England squad following Jarell Quansah's injury withdrawal. This marks White's first England call-up since leaving the 2022 World Cup squad after a disagreement with assistant coach Steve Holland.
White, who declined selection for Euro 2024, has made only seven Premier League appearances this season due to injuries. His return provides a rare positive note amid Arsenal's fitness concerns. Meanwhile, Eze's absence has created an opportunity for Newcastle winger Harvey Barnes to feature for England.
As Arsenal navigate this injury crisis, Arteta faces significant selection challenges during a period that could define their season across three major competitions.
