Arsenal Rocked by Major Injury Blow as Star Faces Weeks on Sidelines

Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury blow as Gabriel Martinelli is expected to be sidelined for over a month after sustaining a hamstring injury in the Carabao Cup semi-final defeat against Newcastle United. According to The Athletic, early assessments indicate that the 23-year-old winger will miss several crucial fixtures, including Premier League clashes against Leicester City, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, and possibly Manchester United and Chelsea. His absence could also stretch into Arsenal’s UEFA Champions League last-16 tie, adding to Mikel Arteta’s growing concerns.

Martinelli was forced off the pitch during the match at St. James’ Park, with Mikel Arteta later confirming that the Brazilian felt discomfort in his hamstring and would undergo further tests. The worst fears of Arsenal fans have now been realized, as the dynamic winger is set to be unavailable for a key period of the season. His injury comes at a particularly challenging time, as Arsenal look to maintain their title push while also competing in Europe.

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 25: Gabriel Martinelli of Arsenal celebrates at full-time following the team’s victory in the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and Arsenal FC at Molineux on January 25, 2025 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

This setback means Arsenal will need to rely on other attacking options to fill the void left by Martinelli. Leandro Trossard, who has been impressive in recent weeks, could see more minutes, while the likes of Raheem Sterling and Kai Havertz may also be called upon to contribute in wide areas. Arteta will hope that Bukayo Saka, who has also been managing fitness concerns, remains available to provide firepower on the opposite flank.

Martinelli’s absence will be deeply felt, given his explosiveness, work rate, and ability to change games with his direct attacking style. He has been a crucial player for Arsenal this season, providing goals and assists while stretching opposition defenses with his pace and movement. The timing of his injury could hardly be worse, as Arsenal face a demanding fixture list that could define their season.

Arsenal’s medical team will now focus on Martinelli’s rehabilitation, hoping to have him back as soon as possible. However, hamstring injuries can be tricky, and the club will not want to rush his recovery, especially with the business end of the season approaching. The hope will be that he can return in time for Arsenal’s crucial matches in March, including a potential Champions League quarter-final should the Gunners progress.

For now, Arsenal will need to find a way to cope without one of their most influential attacking players. With tough matches ahead, Arteta must ensure that his squad adapts and continues their momentum in the Premier League title race. The coming weeks will be a true test of Arsenal’s squad depth and resilience as they aim to navigate this setback and keep their ambitions alive.