Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is facing a mounting injury crisis ahead of a pivotal London derby against Chelsea this weekend, with forward Leandro Trossard becoming the latest casualty.
Trossard's Calf Concern
The Belgian attacker was forced off the pitch after just 38 minutes during Arsenal's impressive Champions League victory over Bayern Munich in midweek. Trossard reported feeling a problem in his calf, prompting an immediate substitution as a precautionary measure.
Club medical staff are now set to conduct further tests to determine the full extent of the injury. There are growing fears within the club that Trossard, who was in fine form with goals in his previous matches against Tottenham and Sunderland, could be sidelined for several weeks.
Speaking after the match, a concerned Arteta admitted, "With Leo, we don't know. He said he felt something. We didn't want to take any risks, obviously."
Triple Scan Anxiety for Key Gunners
The injury woes do not stop with Trossard. Three more first-team Arsenal stars underwent scans on Wednesday to assess their own recovery timelines ahead of the trip to Stamford Bridge.
Striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has been absent since being substituted against Burnley earlier this month, was one of the players having assessments. Meanwhile, midfielder Kai Havertz, who has been unavailable since the opening day of the season after undergoing surgery, also had his progress evaluated.
Arteta remains hopeful that both Gyokeres and Havertz could be available for the top-of-the-table clash, but their participation hinges on the results of these crucial medical examinations.
Gabriel's Extended Absence
In a further significant blow to Arsenal's defensive line, key centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes is also understood to have had a follow-up scan. The Brazilian defender picked up an issue while on international duty, and the injury is likely to keep him out of action for the remainder of the year.
This is a major setback for Arteta, given Gabriel's vital role in the heart of defence alongside William Saliba. However, the manager pointed to past experiences as a source of confidence, stating, "Last year, in the most crucial moment of the season, we were without him for three months and the team managed to remain super competitive."
Arsenal now face a stern test of their squad depth as they prepare to take on second-place Chelsea on Sunday. The Gunners currently hold a six-point advantage over their London rivals and are unbeaten in their last seven encounters against the Blues.
