Arsenal got a bit of good news they have been waiting for, as sports journalist Fabrizio Romano reports via his official X account that defender Piero Hincapie is finally back. The Ecuadorian centre-back, who joined from Bayer Leverkusen right at the transfer deadline, has been out since his first game with that nagging groin injury. Five matches missed, a lot of worry, but now he’s ready again.
Fabrizio Announced:
Piero Hincapié returns as part of Arsenal squad ahead of the Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid.
Manager Mikel Arteta had said before the international break that the 23-year-old would be available right after, and true to his word, on Monday the club confirmed he’s back in full team training. He’s also been included in the squad for Tuesday night’s Champions League clash against Atlético Madrid at the Emirates.
It’s coming at just the right time too. Arsenal might be sitting top of the Premier League, but in Europe, they’re still trying to find that steady rhythm. The narrow 1-0 win at Fulham was okay, but it wasn’t pretty. And with Martin Ødegaard still out till probably late November with a knee issue, the squad is stretched a bit thin.
Hincapie didn’t play for Ecuador during the break as he has been focused fully on recovery, and that paid off with his availability for this encounter. Mikel Arteta is not likely to rush him straight into the starting lineup, maybe just from the bench to ease him back, but he was in action as Arsenal released footage from their training camp via their official X account.
Watch the video below:
For the fans, though, seeing him back in the mix will feel like a win already. His versatility and calm on the ball could help settle things at the back, especially in these tight fixtures coming thick and fast. Arsenal have looked strong, but you can tell the manager wants more control.
If Hincapie can stay fit now, this might be the turning point both for him and for Arsenal’s defensive balance. Sometimes, one player’s return can really change the whole vibe of a team.
