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Arsenal Suffer Fresh Injury Blow as Martinelli Joins Saka and Jesus on the Sidelines
Gabriel Martinelli is set to miss at least a month of action after suffering a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.
The Brazilian forward was forced off after just 37 minutes at St James’ Park, adding to Mikel Arteta’s growing injury concerns. With Bukayo Saka already sidelined until mid-March and Gabriel Jesus ruled out for the rest of the season due to an ACL tear, Martinelli’s absence comes at the worst possible time for Arsenal.
How Long Will Martinelli Be Out?
Martinelli’s injury could see him miss key fixtures in both the Premier League and the Champions League. Arsenal face crucial league clashes against Leicester City, West Ham United, and Nottingham Forest in February as they battle to stay in the title race.
In March, the Gunners have high-stakes encounters against Manchester United at Old Trafford and Chelsea at home. Additionally, Martinelli could miss both legs of Arsenal’s Champions League round of 16 tie, where they will face one of PSV Eindhoven, Juventus, Milan, or Feyenoord.
Arsenal’s Lack of Attacking Depth Raises Concerns
Arsenal’s decision not to strengthen their attack in the January transfer window now looks risky. Arteta had previously expressed his frustration at the club’s lack of spending, emphasizing the need for reinforcements.
“We had a clear intention to explore opportunities to improve our squad, but we haven’t achieved it,” Arteta admitted. “We’re going to have to be very flexible in the front line, and the players we have must stay fit and keep contributing.”
With Martinelli out, Arsenal are left with just four senior forward options: Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri, and Raheem Sterling. Arteta will be hoping to avoid further injuries in an already depleted frontline.
Arsenal Matches Gabriel Martinelli Could Miss
| Date | Competition | Opponent |
|---|---|---|
| 15/02/25 | Premier League | Leicester (A) |
| 22/02/25 | Premier League | West Ham (H) |
| 26/02/25 | Premier League | Nottingham Forest (A) |
| 05/03/25 | Champions League | PSV, Juventus, Milan, or Feyenoord |
| 09/03/25 | Premier League | Man Utd (A) |
| 12/03/25 | Champions League | PSV, Juventus, Milan, or Feyenoord |
| 16/03/25 | Premier League | Chelsea (H) |
Can Arsenal Cope Without Martinelli?
With Arsenal still in the title race and looking to progress in the Champions League, how do you think Arteta’s side will manage without Martinelli? Will they struggle, or can players like Trossard and Havertz step up? Share your thoughts in the comments!
