Arsenal face fresh injury concerns as Hincapie, Zubimendi miss training
Arsenal have suffered a potential double injury setback ahead of their Champions League meeting with Lille after Piero Hincapie and Martin Zubimendi missed training on Monday.
The pair reportedly picked up injuries during a warm-down following Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Leeds United on Saturday, leaving manager Mikel Arteta facing uncertainty over their availability for Tuesday’s match at the Emirates Stadium.
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Hincapie sustained an ankle injury and required assistance to leave the pitch. Videos shared on social media showed the Ecuador international struggling with pain while holding his right ankle.
Defender Cristhian Mosquera and goalkeeper Illan Meslier helped him off the pitch, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of the European fixture.
Hincapie could miss Lille encounter
Hincapie’s potential absence would be another concern for Arsenal, who have dealt with several defensive fitness problems this season.
The left-back started Arsenal’s opening Champions League match against Napoli last month, allowing Riccardo Calafiori to rest. His possible unavailability could force Arteta to reconsider his defensive options as he manages the workload of his players.
William Saliba remains sidelined after aggravating a back injury while representing France at the World Cup this summer. Although the defender has returned to individual running sessions on the grass, he is reportedly expected to remain out for several more weeks.
Jurrien Timber has also been carefully managed following surgery on a groin problem during the summer.
Ben White and Ezri Konsa have experienced recent fitness concerns, although both were reported to be fit and available after Arsenal’s victory over Leeds.
With several defenders requiring careful management, Hincapie’s condition could influence Arteta’s selection for the Lille fixture.
Zubimendi absence raises midfield concerns
Zubimendi’s absence from Monday’s training session adds another complication for Arteta as he considers potential changes to his starting lineup.
The midfielder reportedly sustained a knock during the warm-down against Leeds, although the extent of the problem has not been confirmed.
If Zubimendi is unavailable, Arsenal would have fewer options for rotating their midfield, potentially limiting opportunities to rest Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly..