Arsenal have been handed another injury blow after Gabriel Martinelli was ruled out for more than a month with a hamstring injury sustained during the Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle United.
The Brazilian winger pulled up in the first half at St James’ Park and was forced off after appearing to injure the back of his leg. Softfootball reports that medical examinations have now confirmed the injury will sideline the 23-year-old for several weeks.
Martinelli’s absence comes at the worst possible time for Mikel Arteta. Gabriel Jesus has already been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury, while Bukayo Saka remains unavailable as he recovers from a hamstring problem.
The Gunners also failed to strengthen their attack during the January transfer window despite exploring several options. Arteta admitted the club was disappointed, saying:
We had a clear intention… we haven’t achieved it.
Martinelli is now expected to miss key Premier League fixtures against Leicester City, West Ham and Nottingham Forest, while his availability for Arsenal’s Champions League Round of 16 clash also remains in doubt. His injury leaves Arteta with limited attacking options during a crucial stage of the campaign.
