Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing a deepening injury crisis, with 12 players now doubts for the club's return to Premier League action after the international break. Martin Zubimendi is the latest to withdraw from international duty, having reported discomfort in his right knee during Spain's camp.
The Spanish FA confirmed Zubimendi's withdrawal, stating: 'To avoid any risk and to protect the player's health, he has been removed from the squad. Arsenal FC's medical staff have been informed of the situation.' The midfielder joins a growing list of absentees, including Piero Hincapie, who pulled out of Ecuador's squad for their match against the Netherlands.
Other notable absentees include England internationals Noni Madueke, Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, all of whom returned to Arsenal for medical treatment. Madueke was spotted wearing a leg brace after leaving the England camp, while Rice and Saka are being assessed for unspecified issues. Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Eberechi Eze, Leandro Trossard and Jurrien Timber have also withdrawn from their respective national teams.
Eze's calf problem is particularly concerning, with reports suggesting he could be sidelined for four to six weeks. The attacking midfielder picked up the injury during Arsenal's Champions League win over Bayer Leverkusen earlier this month. Trossard, meanwhile, withdrew from Belgium's squad with a hip injury, with the Belgian FA stating the decision 'will allow him to continue his rehabilitation under optimal conditions.'
The injury crisis comes at a critical juncture for Arsenal, who face five fixtures in 15 days after the international break. Squad rotation will be essential to avoid further setbacks, but Arteta's options are severely limited with so many key players unavailable.
