Injury expert delivers worrying update on Arsenal star after Arteta concerns
According to an injury expert, Arsenal star Mohamed Elneny could miss the remainder of the season due to a knee injury, dealing a major blow to Gunners manager Mikel Arteta.
The Egyptian midfielder sustained the injury in training prior to last month’s north London derby against Tottenham and was subsequently omitted from the matchday squad.
Arteta expressed his concerns in a press conference prior to the FA Cup match against Manchester City the following week (via the official Arsenal website): “He had some issues with his knee that we are assessing at the moment, and we’ll have to wait and see how he evolves in the next couple of days.
“There are some concerns [over potential long-term injury], especially as Mo never complains about anything, but let’s see.”
Since then, Elneny has not played, and Arsenal added midfield depth by acquiring Jorginho from Chelsea on transfer deadline day.
Now, it is rumored that the Egyptian might not play again this season.
Ben Dinnery, owner of the sports injury analysis firm Premier Injuries, commented on the severity of Elneny’s knee injury.
Speaking to Football Insider, he said: “It looks as though Elneny is facing a severe injury at Arsenal. We’re certainly talking months on the sidelines instead of weeks with this one.
“I understand that it is very touch-and-go whether Elneny will even play again this season. The arrival of Jorginho in January is a good indicator that Mikel Arteta feels vulnerable and fragile in those positions.
“Arsenal will be very worried about that midfield area, with Thomas Partey not boasting the best injury record either. It was a wise move to bring somebody in to just offer cover and quality in case Arsenal are hit with more injuries.”
Albert Sambi Lokonga joined Crystal Palace on loan until the end of the season on transfer deadline day, giving the Gunners Partey and Jorginho who can play in a deeper midfield position.
Granit Xhaka can also play in this position, but has had more success in a more advanced midfield role this season. Oleksandr Zinchenko, a left-back, is another option if necessary.
Given Elneny’s suspected long-term injury, Jorginho’s arrival could be significant in multiple ways as the Gunners, who are currently five points ahead of second-placed City with a game in hand, vie for the Premier League title.
Injury expert delivers worrying update on Arsenal star after Arteta concerns
