Arsenal hit with fresh injury blow as key midfielder sent home

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Arsenal have been dealt another injury setback during the international break, with Martin Zubimendi becoming the 10th player to withdraw from national team duty due to fitness concerns.

The Spanish midfielder has departed his country’s squad after experiencing discomfort in his right knee, following a brief 13-minute appearance in Friday’s friendly against Serbia.

According to Football London, the Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed Zubimendi’s withdrawal, stating:

“Martín Zubimendi has withdrawn from the Spanish national team camp due to discomfort in his right knee. To avoid any risk and to protect the player’s health, he has been removed from the squad. Arsenal FC’s medical staff have been informed of the situation.”

The 27-year-old’s injury adds to Arsenal’s growing list of players who have cut short their international commitments. Piero Hincapie also departed Ecuador’s camp ahead of their clash with the Netherlands, despite featuring in Friday’s draw against Morocco before medical tests prompted his exit.

Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice have both returned to north London for assessment after missing England’s friendly against Japan. The pair joined Chelsea’s Noni Madueke in withdrawing from Thomas Tuchel’s squad, with Madueke spotted wearing a knee brace following England’s draw with Uruguay.

Growing injury concerns

The mounting list of withdrawals represents a significant concern for Arsenal as they approach a crucial period of the season. With 10 players now having departed their respective international camps, the Gunners face potential disruption to their squad planning.

Zubimendi’s knee issue will be particularly worrying given his importance to Arsenal’s midfield setup. The Spanish international has established himself as a key figure since his arrival, and any extended absence could impact the team’s rhythm in upcoming fixtures.

Arsenal’s medical staff will now assess all returning players to determine the extent of their various fitness issues. The club will be hoping that the precautionary withdrawals prevent more serious injuries from developing.

The international break was supposed to provide respite for Arsenal’s squad, but instead has highlighted the physical demands placed on players throughout the campaign. The club will need to carefully manage their returning internationals to ensure they are available for the business end of the season.