Arsenal’s preparations for Tuesday’s Champions League trip to Slavia Prague have been disrupted by another injury concern, with Viktor Gyokeres ruled out after picking up a muscle problem in the 2-0 win over Burnley.
The Sweden striker was withdrawn in the second half at the Emirates and did not train with the squad on Monday, prompting fears of a spell on the sidelines.
Mikel Arteta confirmed the setback in his pre-match press conference, admitting the club’s medical staff are still assessing the severity.
“I am concerned because he hasn’t had many muscular issues, and he had to leave the pitch feeling something,” said Arteta. “That’s obviously never a good sign, especially for a player that is very explosive. We’ll know more after further tests.”
Gyokeres’s absence adds to Arsenal’s growing fitness worries as they continue to juggle domestic and European ambitions.
The Gunners have been near-perfect this season, sitting six points clear at the top of the Premier League and maintaining a 100% record in the Champions League group stage.
Yet with key fixtures piling up and the schedule tightening, Arteta’s biggest challenge may now be keeping his squad healthy as the campaign gathers pace.
