Arsenal’s promising young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri is set to miss several weeks of action after sustaining a muscle injury, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed on Monday. The setback comes at a challenging time for the Gunners, who are already grappling with a growing injury list ahead of their League Cup semi-final clash against Newcastle United on Tuesday.
The 17-year-old Nwaneri has been a standout performer this season, making 18 appearances across all competitions, including 12 in the Premier League. The Arsenal academy product has impressed with his attacking flair, contributing five goals, including the crucial equalizer in Saturday’s 1-1 league draw against Brighton & Hove Albion. However, his evening was cut short as he was forced off at halftime, with Gabriel Martinelli taking his place.
“Unfortunately, he has picked up a muscular injury and will be out for a few weeks,” Arteta told reporters.
Injury Woes Pile Up for Arsenal
Nwaneri’s absence compounds an already dire injury situation for Arsenal. Star winger Bukayo Saka remains sidelined for over two months following hamstring surgery. Additionally, forward Raheem Sterling and defenders Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu are still out of action. To make matters worse, Kai Havertz, who missed Arsenal’s last two matches due to illness, remains a doubt for the Newcastle game.
Arteta was cautious about Havertz’s availability. “I hope he returns to action, but I don’t want to say yes because last time I said he would be fit, and he wasn’t,” he explained.
January Transfer Window on the Horizon
With injuries mounting, questions about Arsenal’s plans for the January transfer window are inevitable. Arteta kept his cards close to his chest but acknowledged the club’s vigilance in the market. “What happens in the market, we are very alert. It’s not a yes, but it’s not a no,” he said, leaving the door open for potential reinforcements.
Newcastle: A Formidable Opponent
Adding to Arsenal’s challenges is the formidable form of their League Cup semi-final opponents. Newcastle United are riding high, having won their last six games across all competitions. Their recent scalps include Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur.
Arteta singled out Newcastle striker Alexander Isak for praise, describing the Swede as a “top player” in “top form.” Isak has netted 14 goals in 21 games this season, including seven consecutive Premier League strikes. “He’s scoring a lot of goals. Trying to minimize the strength of the opposition will be key,” Arteta added.
A Test of Arsenal’s Depth and Resilience
As Arsenal prepare for the semi-final showdown, the team’s depth and resilience will be put to the test. Despite the setbacks, Arteta remains focused on the challenge ahead, knowing that overcoming Newcastle could provide a significant boost during this injury-stricken period.
With the League Cup final within reach, Arsenal fans will be hoping for another inspired performance from the Gunners, even as their squad faces adversity. The pressure is on, but so too is the opportunity to rise above the challenges and secure a path to silverware.
