Arsenal receive bad news that could jeopardize their Premier League title race

Arsenal’s hopes of lifting the Premier League title have been dealt a major concern after Mikel Arteta confirmed that Gabriel Martinelli will undergo a scan on Thursday to assess a suspected hamstring injury. The Brazilian winger was forced off during the Gunners’ 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Newcastle United at St James’ Park, adding to Arsenal’s growing list of injury worries.

Speaking after the match, Arteta via The Athletic  revealed that Martinelli felt discomfort in his hamstring, prompting his early substitution. The Arsenal boss admitted that the club will need further tests to determine the severity of the injury.

“He felt something, I think it was his hamstring, and he wasn’t comfortable to continue,” Arteta told The Athletic. “So we will have to have an MRI scan tomorrow to see the extent of the injury.”

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 05: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal leaves the pitch following injury alongside Simon Murphy, Head Physiotherapist of Arsenal during the Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg match between Newcastle United and Arsenal at St James’ Park on February 05, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

A Huge Concern for Arsenal’s Title Hopes

With Arsenal in the middle of a heated Premier League title race, losing Martinelli for an extended period could be a major setback. The Gunners are currently second in the league table with 50 points after 24 games, closely trailing leaders Liverpool. The Brazilian winger has been a key part of Arteta’s attacking setup, providing crucial goals and assists throughout the season.

Martinelli’s pace, directness, and work rate make him a vital asset, and his absence would leave Arsenal with limited options on the left wing. With Bukayo Saka already managing injury concerns in recent weeks and Gabriel Jesus also struggling with fitness issues, Arsenal cannot afford another key attacking player to be sidelined for long.

Who Can Step Up in Martinelli’s Absence?

If the scan results confirm a significant injury layoff, Arteta will need to find alternative solutions. Leandro Trossard could be the natural replacement for Martinelli on the left wing, while Raheem Sterling, who joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea, could also see increased game time. Another option could be moving Kai Havertz out wide, allowing Arteta to adjust his attacking setup accordingly.

Arsenal fans will be anxiously waiting for the scan results, hoping that the injury is not as serious as feared. The timing is particularly concerning, as Arsenal are set to face Leicester City in the Premier League on February 15, following their disappointing Carabao Cup exit.

Arsenal’s Injury Woes Mounting

Martinelli’s injury adds to an already worrying list of sidelined players for Arsenal. The likes of Ben White, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Thomas Partey have all been dealing with injuries, putting extra pressure on Arteta to keep his squad fit and competitive in the title race.

With crucial fixtures ahead, including games against Liverpool and Manchester City in the coming months, Arsenal will be hoping that Martinelli’s scan brings positive news. If he is ruled out for a lengthy period, it could have a huge impact on their title ambitions.

For now, all eyes will be on Thursday’s medical results as Arsenal fans wait for updates on one of their most important players.