Arsenal`s manager, Mikel Arteta, is dealing with a double injury concern as midfielders Thomas Partey and Jorginho both had to leave the game early during Arsenal`s 1-1 draw against Brentford. These injuries come at a bad time, just before their important Champions League quarterfinal second leg match against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
Partey was substituted in the 69th minute shortly after scoring a goal. Arteta didn`t specify the exact nature of Partey`s injury, only mentioning that the player `felt something.` It appeared to be a muscle problem.
Jorginho also came off the field soon after, looking uncomfortable. Arsenal played with 10 men for the last few minutes of the game because of this.
Arteta explained about Jorginho, `He said he couldn`t breathe properly, it might be related to his ribs. It`s unusual because Jorginho usually plays through discomfort, so it seems to be something significant.`
Regarding Partey, Arteta was more cautious, saying, `He felt something, so we didn`t want to risk it. We are unsure if he will be available for Wednesday. The doctors will examine him and assess his condition.`
Losing either Partey or Jorginho, especially Partey, would be a big challenge for Arsenal as they prepare to play Real Madrid. Being without both would create a major problem, leaving Arteta short of options in central midfield. While Declan Rice could move to a deeper midfield role, this would create another gap in a more advanced position.
Adding to the concerns, Ben White was also absent on Saturday due to a knock picked up in training. Arteta commented, `He wasn`t fit to be in the squad today. We have a few days to see if he recovers.`
Injuries have been a recurring issue for Arsenal this season. Key players like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka have already missed periods of play.
