Arsenal's impressive 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium was tempered by a first-half injury to key forward Leandro Trossard, casting uncertainty over his availability for the crucial weekend clash with Chelsea.
Manager Mikel Arteta delivered a concerning update on the Belgian international, who had to be substituted shortly before half-time in the Champions League encounter.
Arteta's Cautious Approach to Trossard Setback
The Arsenal boss revealed the club are taking no risks with the 30-year-old after he felt a problem during the match. ‘With Leo, we don’t know. He said he felt something, so we didn’t want to take any risks,’ Arteta stated in his post-match comments.
Trossard, who has emerged as a vital component of Arteta's attacking options this season, was replaced by Noni Madueke in the 41st minute. The former Brighton player has contributed five goals in 15 appearances across all competitions this campaign, establishing himself as an underrated but crucial figure in the squad.
Statement Victory Overshadowed by Fitness Concern
While the injury news brought a sombre note to the evening, Arsenal's performance against the German giants provided plenty of reasons for optimism. The victory extends their perfect record in Europe this season and moves them to the top of their Champions League group after five matches.
The scoring opened through defender Jurrien Timber, who expertly flicked home Bukayo Saka's corner at the near post. Bayern Munich responded with an equaliser ten minutes later through 17-year-old Lennart Karl, who finished a beautifully constructed team move.
After the interval, Arsenal demonstrated their growing dominance. Substitute Madueke justified his introduction by bundling home Riccardo Calafiori's cross at the back post to restore the lead.
The victory was sealed by Gabriel Martinelli, making a welcome return from his own injury layoff. The Brazilian displayed excellent awareness to round Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer deep in the opposition half before slotting into an empty net.
Chelsea Clash Looms Large
The potential absence of Trossard presents a significant concern for Arteta as he prepares his squad for Sunday's Premier League encounter against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. The Blues currently sit second in the table, just six points behind the league leaders.
Arteta acknowledged the challenge ahead, saying: ‘They are a top side, I think they’ve not lost in 20 plus games. We did that, it’s great, I am very pleased as well.’
Reflecting on his team's comprehensive performance against Bayern, the Spanish manager praised his players: ‘Individually, we were immense. After yesterday, they know how hard they work to prepare for every single game. Today is another massive victory.’
Meanwhile, Bayern captain Harry Kane urged his team not to panic despite suffering their first defeat in all competitions this season. The England striker told TNT Sports: ‘It was a tough game which is kind of what we expected. It’s our first loss of the season. We don’t want to panic too much about it. But we will learn about it for sure.’
Kane also acknowledged Arsenal's quality, suggesting: ‘I’m sure we’ll see them again in the later stages of the Champions League.’
As Arsenal fans celebrate a statement European victory, all eyes will be on Trossard's fitness ahead of a pivotal weekend in their Premier League title challenge.
