Arteta confirms Arsenal investigation into recurring warm-up injuries
Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal are investigating a spate of warm-up injuries after Riccardo Calafiori became the latest player to suffer a pre-match setback.
The Italian defender was forced to withdraw moments before the Gunners’ FA Cup clash with Wigan Athletic on Sunday.
It prompted the Arsenal manager to admit the club is "looking into" why key personnel are breaking down before kick-off.
Defensive disruptions
This marks the second occasion this season that Calafiori has dropped out of the starting XI following the pre-match warm-up.
The summer signing previously suffered a similar issue ahead of a Premier League fixture against Brighton in December.
William Saliba also fell victim to the trend in August, sustaining a twisted ankle prior to a 1-0 defeat by Liverpool.
The French centre-back was replaced just five minutes before that fixture by Cristhian Mosquera.
Saka setback adds to concerns
The issue has not been confined to the backline, with Bukayo Saka limping off before a match against Leeds United in late January.
Noni Madueke replaced the England international that day, helping the side to a comfortable 4-0 victory at Elland Road.
Arteta will be keen to resolve the recurring problem to ensure his squad remains fit for the remainder of the campaign.
