Arsenal receive bad news ahead of their final two Premier League games

Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli will miss the final two games of the Premier League season due to an ankle ligament injury sustained during Sunday’s 3-0 loss to Brighton. The 21-year-old Brazilian winger has been ruled out for a number of weeks but is expected to return for pre-season ahead of the new campaign according to The Athletic.

Martinelli has been a key player for Arsenal this season, scoring 15 Premier League goals and providing five assists. His contributions have helped the Gunners stay in the title race, as they currently sit second on the 2022/23 Premier League table with 81 points after 36 games. However, they are closely following first-placed Manchester City, who have 85 points and one game in hand.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – MAY 07: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates with teammates after Fabian Schaer of Newcastle United (not pictured) concedes an own goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Arsenal FC at St. James Park on May 07, 2023 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The injury comes as a blow to Arsenal’s hopes of catching up with Manchester City in the final stretch of the season. Martinelli’s pace and attacking threat will be sorely missed in their remaining fixtures against Crystal Palace and Everton.

Despite his absence, Arsenal will be hoping to finish the season strongly and secure a top-two finish. They have already secured Champions League qualification for next season and will be looking to build on their success under manager Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal fans will be hoping that Martinelli makes a full recovery over the summer and returns stronger than ever next season. His performances this year have shown that he has all the qualities needed to become one of Europe’s top wingers, and he will undoubtedly be a key player for Arsenal in their future campaigns.