Arsenal’s momentum hit a weird speed bump this weekend. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Piero Hincapié and Martín Zubimendi both picked up ankle injuries during a post-match warm-down following the win against Leeds on Saturday.
The injury report
Arteta revealed that the duo had to participate in a training session because they hadn't logged enough minutes to maintain match rhythm. Unfortunately, the plan backfired, and both players are now ruled out for Tuesday’s Champions League game against Lille.
Arteta isn’t changing his post-match routine despite the bad luck. "If I knew I had a crystal ball clear, I’d say: ‘Guys, go in the Jacuzzi, everybody, I’ll see you tomorrow,'" he said. While scans are happening Monday to determine the severity, Arteta noted that Hincapié’s injury looks "a little bit more serious." He also appeared visibly frustrated that the team didn't use a stretcher, noting reserve goalie Illan Meslier gave Hincapié a piggyback off the pitch instead.
Silver linings
It’s not all Ls for the squad, though. William Saliba has officially resumed training on his own as he works his way back from a back injury from the World Cup. Arteta is playing it safe, saying we’re still looking at weeks before he’s fully back in the mix, so he’s not rushing the process.
Meanwhile, Gabriel Magalhães is locked in. Despite his gut-wrenching penalty miss in the Champions League final against PSG, he’s ready to step up again if the situation calls for it. "I have learned from this and if I have another opportunity, I will be ready to take it," Gabriel said.
Why it matters
Arsenal is in a tight spot for their Champions League push. With two players down and the pressure mounting, Arteta needs his remaining lineup to stay healthy and ready to rotate. Losing depth right before a big European night is lowkey a disaster, but seeing Saliba back in action is a massive W for the long-term outlook of the season.
