Arsenal’s injury crisis deepens as Viktor Gyökeres is ruled out of the Champions League clash against Slavia Prague. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the Swedish forward’s absence after he suffered a muscular injury during the 2-0 win over Burnley. The setback adds to Arsenal’s growing list of injured stars ahead of their crucial European fixture.
Arteta explained the situation, saying: “He’s definitely not available. He hasn’t trained today, and we need to do some more tests and scans in the next few days to understand the extent of the injury, but for this game he’s not available.”
Gyökeres had recently ended his goal drought with a confident strike at Turf Moor but was withdrawn at halftime after feeling discomfort. Arteta admitted: “I am concerned because he hasn’t had many muscular issues and he had to leave the pitch and he was feeling something and that’s obviously never a good sign.”
Arteta’s Growing Injury Concerns
Arsenal’s attacking options are now stretched to the limit. The Gunners are already without Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli, all capable of filling the central attacking role. In addition, Noni Madueke and Martin Ødegaard remain sidelined, while Martin Zubimendi only recently returned to full training.
Arteta is expected to reshuffle his lineup, with Leandro Trossard or Mikel Merino likely to feature as the makeshift striker. Both players have performed well in advanced roles before, but Gyökeres’ injury removes Arsenal’s most direct attacking outlet.
Arteta added: “He was in a really good moment, in really good form, it’s very important for the team. But for tomorrow, we don’t have him, so that’s it.”
No Timeline Yet for Gyökeres’ Recovery
The Arsenal boss refused to put a timeframe on Gyökeres’ return, urging patience until the medical staff completes assessments. “If he’s got something he’s going to have to deal with, we will help him to do that,” said Arteta. “He was very disappointed after the match with what he felt, but this is part of football. At the end of the day, if you expect a linear line, everything going up, it’s not going to happen.”
Arteta’s words reflect both concern and composure as Arsenal prepare for a vital Champions League night without their star striker. The Gunners will now rely on depth and adaptability to overcome Slavia Prague and maintain their European momentum.
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