LONDON — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is dealing with fresh injury concerns as midfielders Thomas Partey and Jorginho both had to leave the game against Brentford due to injuries. This is a major concern 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. It seemed to be a muscle problem, but Arteta didn`t specify the exact issue, only mentioning that Partey `felt something`.
Jorginho also exited the game soon after, appearing uncomfortable. Arsenal played with 10 men for the last few minutes of the match because of this.
Arteta explained that Jorginho said he couldn`t breathe properly, possibly due to a rib issue. He noted it was unusual for Jorginho to stop playing, suggesting it might be a significant problem.
Regarding Partey, Arteta was more cautious, saying they didn`t want to take any risks and need to assess him with doctors to see if he will be available for Wednesday`s game.
Losing either Partey or Jorginho, especially Partey, would be a big blow for Arsenal as they prepare to face Real Madrid. Being without both would create a serious problem, leaving Arteta without his main central midfield options. While Declan Rice could play deeper, it would create another gap in a more advanced midfield position.
Adding to the concerns, Ben White, who played briefly in their previous victory, was absent on Saturday due to a training injury. Arteta mentioned they need to wait and see if White will recover in time.
This season has been tough for Arsenal with injuries. Key players like Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka have missed time, and Gabriel is already ruled out for the rest of the season. The situation with Kai Havertz`s fitness for the final weeks is also uncertain.
