Arsenal have been dealt another defensive setback after emerging fears that centre-back Cristhian Mosquera could be ruled out for up to six weeks following an ankle injury sustained in the midweek victory over Brentford.
The 21-year-old limped off during the Gunners’ 2–0 Premier League win after landing awkwardly, prompting immediate medical attention.
He was later substituted, with early assessments suggesting a possible spell on the sidelines lasting between six and eight weeks.
According to BBC Sport, further scans have been scheduled to determine the full extent of the damage, but the club is bracing for bad news as injuries continue to pile up in defence.
Mosquera’s setback comes at a particularly difficult time for Arsenal, who are already without their first-choice pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.
The duo has missed recent fixtures due to a training knock and a thigh injury, respectively.
READ ALSO: Saka, Rice Fit for Brentford as Arteta Provides Injury Updates
Manager Mikel Arteta, addressing journalists on Friday, described Mosquera’s case as “the more complicated one,” noting that additional tests were expected within the day. He confirmed that Saliba is only “days away” from returning, while Gabriel is unlikely to feature again until January.
With Mosquera and Piero Hincapié holding the fort in the absence of the senior defenders, the young Spaniard’s possible long lay-off leaves Arsenal stretched at the back at a crucial stage of the season.
The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League and lead their Champions League group.
Arteta will be hoping Saliba’s return comes swiftly as Arsenal prepare for a demanding run of fixtures, beginning with a heavyweight clash away to Aston Villa on Saturday.
The Gunners then resume European action with a trip to Club Brugge on December 10.