Mikel Arteta orders Arsenal review to solve devastating injury crisis
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has commissioned an urgent internal review into the club’s severe injury record this season as they prepare for a crucial Premier League clash against Fulham.
The Gunners have seen key squad members repeatedly consigned to the treatment room, threatening to derail their quest for a first top-flight title in 22 years.
According to recent data, outfield players at the north London club have cumulatively missed 262 matches throughout the current campaign.
Outside expertise sought
Seeking a solution to this persistent problem, the Arsenal hierarchy has invited Spanish physiotherapist Joaquin Acedo to their London Colney training base.
The Cadiz-based specialist, a trusted confidant of the manager, has become a regular presence behind the scenes to help identify underlying physical or methodological issues.
Tensions have reportedly escalated within the club over the sheer volume of setbacks affecting crucial personnel, including Bukayo Saka, Riccardo Calafiori, and Mikel Merino.
Attacking absences highlight growing crisis
The profound impact of these fitness struggles is perfectly illustrated by the prolonged absence of Kai Havertz.
The German attacker is currently sidelined with a groin problem, having already endured significant knee and hamstring issues that have restricted him to just 20 appearances.
Ahead of Saturday evening’s crucial fixture, the former Chelsea forward remains unavailable alongside Jurrien Timber, while club captain Martin Odegaard is rated as a major doubt.
“He’s been a huge miss. We’re talking about one of the most important attacking players that we have, and he’s been out for seven or eight months.”
Mikel Arteta stated when questioned about the fitness of his squad.
Title race implications
Navigating a congested fixture list without core stars has heavily hampered squad selection as the domestic season approaches its critical final stages.
Remarkably, of the 22 outfield players utilized during this gruelling campaign, only Martin Zubimendi and Myles Lewis-Skelly have entirely avoided the medical department.
“The team has shown an incredible capacity to overcome these kinds of scenarios and still be very competitive.”
The 42-year-old tactician added, praising the resilience of his remaining fit players.
Whether this internal investigation can provide a lasting solution remains to be seen, but the urgency to rectify the situation in north London is palpable.