Arsenal's defensive resources have been dealt a significant blow with the news that summer signing Cristhian Mosquera is facing an extended period out of action.
Defensive Blow for Title Challengers
Manager Mikel Arteta has described the injury to the young Spaniard as 'complicated', casting a shadow over the Gunners' preparations for a crucial run of fixtures. The 20-year-old centre-back, who joined from Valencia, had been making a positive impression, providing reliable cover for first-choice pairing William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Mosquera's promising start in North London, which included forming a new partnership with Piero Hincapie during recent games against Chelsea and Brentford, was abruptly halted in midweek. The Spain under-21 international was injured following an awkward landing from an aerial challenge and was forced off the pitch.
Lengthy Absence and Squad Implications
According to reports from The BBC, Mosquera could now be sidelined for between six to eight weeks. This timeframe would rule him out of a number of pivotal matches as Arsenal look to maintain their five-point lead at the Premier League summit.
'That’s the one that is more complicated,' Arteta confirmed when discussing Mosquera's condition ahead of Saturday's trip to face Aston Villa. 'But again, we have another test today to see where we are with them.'
The injury concerns do not end with Mosquera. The club is also anxiously awaiting news on the fitness of talismanic midfielder Declan Rice, who failed to complete the full 90 minutes in the win over Brentford. Arteta remained cautious, stating, 'Let’s see... Every hour is going to be very important to see the availability of the players. After that, we’ll decide which ones [are available].'
Merino Earns Striker Role
In more positive news, midfielder Mikel Merino has impressed so much in an emergency striker role that he may continue there even when the club's recognised forwards return. With Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus all injured, the 29-year-old Spaniard has led the line, scoring and assisting in the 2-0 victory against Brentford.
Arteta confirmed that Merino's performances have cemented him as a genuine option up front. 'I think he has earned at least to be in the thinking behind it for the way he’s performing and the impact that he’s bringing to the team, so that’s a yes,' the manager said.
This injury setback for Mosquera tests Arsenal's squad depth at a vital moment in the season, while Merino's unexpected emergence offers a welcome tactical alternative for Arteta as the title race intensifies.
