Arsenal saw their Carabao Cup-winning dreams extinguished as they sustained a 2-0 loss (4-0 on aggregate) to Newcastle United in the semi-final. What made things worse is that winger Gabriel Martinelli, sustained an injury in the game and now faces a spell out of action.
Arsenal Discover Gabriel Martinelli Injury Blow
How Long Could Martinelli Be Out For?
The Athletic’s David Ornstein has reported that the Brazilian forward sustained a hamstring injury that forced him to be substituted in the first half against the Magpies at St. James Park. The journalist claims that the 23-year-old could end up being out of action for over a month because of this latest issue.
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Ornstein claims that early indications have suggested that Arsenal will miss Martinelli for a number of games after their warm-weather break in Dubai. It’s added that Martinelli is now projected to potentially miss the Premier League matches against Leicester City (February 15), West Ham United (February 22) and Nottingham Forest (February 26).
The journalist claims that He could even end up missing the key league clashes against Chelsea and Manchester United in March, with Mikel Arteta’s side needing to win games consistently to keep piling the pressure on Liverpool in the title race. It’s also claimed that Martinelli remains a doubt for Arsenal’s two legs in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, which will take part in early March too.
How Has Martinelli Performed For Arsenal This Season?
This injury will come as a blow for Mikel Arteta’s side, especially considering how the 23-year-old’s form has improved in recent weeks. Martinelli had two goal contributions (one goal, one assist) in the Gunners’ previous three league games and also impressed in the 5-1 win over Manchester City.
The Brazilian, hailed as “really sharp” after his bright performance in his side’s 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk this season, scored seven goals and provided four assists in 35 matches for Arsenal this season. In his absence, Arteta will need to rely on Leandro Trossard to play in that left-wing flank or could even turn to on-loan winger Raheem Sterling to fill the void.
