Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is grappling with a significant injury headache as his side prepares for a pivotal UEFA Champions League encounter against Club Brugge in Belgium on Wednesday night.
Gunners' Squad Hit by Fresh Blows
The north London club heads into the match on the back of a painful Premier League defeat, conceding a stoppage-time winner to Aston Villa on Saturday. That result saw their lead at the summit cut to just two points. In Europe, however, the situation is brighter, with Arsenal currently top of their Champions League group, holding a three-point advantage.
Their opponents, Club Brugge, sit on four points and remain firmly in the hunt for a knockout stage berth, lying just two points outside the playoff positions. Every point is now critical for the Belgian outfit.
Confirmed Absences for Arsenal
The treatment room at London Colney is busy. Kai Havertz is ruled out until at least the end of the month. Arteta described his recovery as "a matter of weeks," adding the team is "desperate to have him" back.
Defender Gabriel Magalhaes is also sidelined until towards the month's end, potentially returning slightly ahead of Havertz. The most recent and significant blow is to Cristhian Mosquera. Arteta confirmed after the Villa match that the defender "is going to be out for weeks unfortunately, it's much more than what we expected."
Major Doubts Linger Over Key Duo
Two other crucial players face a race against time to be involved. Leandro Trossard was substituted during the loss to Villa after feeling a problem. Arteta noted he "started to feel it again," casting doubt on his ability to start Wednesday's game given the short turnaround.
Perhaps the biggest concern is over centre-back William Saliba, who missed the Villa clash entirely with what Arteta called "a little niggle." The manager hoped it would be "a matter of days," but his availability remains uncertain.
Club Brugge Also Missing Key Men
The home side are not without their own selection issues. Lynnt Audoor is expected to miss the match with a muscular injury, while Ludovit Reis remains absent due to a shoulder problem.
This fixture represents a crucial moment in Arsenal's European campaign. Navigating it successfully while contending with this lengthy injury list will be a stern test of Arteta's squad depth and tactical acumen as the demanding winter schedule intensifies.
