Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has disclosed that a virus outbreak disrupted his squad’s preparations for their crucial 3-1 Premier League victory against Brentford on Wednesday.
German forward Kai Havertz was sent home after falling ill, while midfielder Declan Rice, also affected, could only make a second-half appearance.
Captain Martin Odegaard, reportedly unwell before kickoff, started the match but was replaced after his error contributed to Bryan Mbeumo’s opener for Brentford.
Despite the setback, the Gunners rallied at the Gtech Community Stadium, with goals from Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Gabriel Martinelli sealing an impressive comeback victory.
“It affected players on the pitch and off the pitch,” Arteta said after Arsenal closed the gap to league leaders Liverpool to six points. “Kai had very clear symptoms, so we sent him back to London. These things happen, especially during this period with infections and viruses.”
Arteta expressed hope that the virus would subside before Arsenal’s next match against Brighton on Saturday, as the Gunners aim to sustain their title challenge.
