Mikel Arteta Admits Disappointment After Ethan Nwaneri’s Injury Forces Arsenal to Play Without Teen Sensation for the Rest of January in Carabao Cup Clash Against Newcastle

Arsenal’s plans for January have taken another hit as teenager Ethan Nwaneri will be sidelined for the rest of the month due to a muscular injury.

This news comes just ahead of their Carabao Cup semi-final clash against Newcastle, a crucial match for Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Nwaneri’s Rapid Rise Interrupted

At just 17 years old, Nwaneri has made a significant impact, starting in two consecutive Premier League games.

His latest performance in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brighton saw him score the opening goal before being substituted at half-time.

The young talent was stepping up to fill the gap left by Bukayo Saka, who is expected to be out until March, as well as Raheem Sterling.

However, this injury now means that the teenager will miss out on Arsenal’s seven upcoming fixtures in January, including the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final at home to Newcastle.

Arteta’s Disappointment

Arteta expressed his frustration, saying: “Unfortunately, he has picked up a muscular injury and he will be out for a few weeks.”

The coach did not specify which area of Nwaneri’s body was affected.

He added that the player didn’t immediately realize the severity of the injury, but it will halt his promising development for now.

Arteta acknowledged Nwaneri’s growth, especially in stepping up for important matches and adapting to different roles.

Injury Concerns Extend to Other Players

Aside from Nwaneri, Arsenal’s injury woes continue.

Kai Havertz, who was absent for the games against Brentford and Brighton due to illness, might return to action against Newcastle.

Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard is still recovering from the same illness and was only fit enough to sit on the bench at Brighton.

Arteta highlighted the lack of available first-team players in training, with only eight players participating on Monday.

Despite this, he remains focused on making the most of the situation, saying, “I cannot change it, so let’s take the things that we can get out of them to be better.”

Focus Shifts to Cup Ambitions

The Gunners are currently six points behind Liverpool in the Premier League race, having played one match more.

With the league title chase still tight, Arteta is now turning his attention to cup competitions, starting with the Carabao Cup.

Arsenal’s long wait for this trophy has extended over three decades, and Arteta is eager to secure it as a landmark achievement in his tenure.

Newcastle’s Threat and Isak’s Form

Newcastle, who have been in strong form with six consecutive wins, will pose a tough challenge.

Their star forward, Alexander Isak, has been in excellent form, netting nine goals in his last seven league matches.

Former Arsenal player Paul Merson has even urged his old club to consider signing Isak.

Arteta knows the threat Isak poses but is determined to limit his impact, stating, “He is a top player in top form, scoring a lot of goals.

Minimizing the strengths of the opposition is a big part of the plan when we play any opponent.”

With a sold-out Emirates Stadium awaiting, Arteta and his team will need to bring their A-game if they hope to reach the Carabao Cup final.

This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!

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