Noni Madueke’s injury complicates Arsenal’s season as the winger will miss around two months. The 23-year-old suffered a knee injury during Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester City on Sunday. He had to be substituted at half-time.
Madueke, who joined from Chelsea this summer, left the field after experiencing discomfort early in the match. Arteta explained: “He had an issue very early in the match and he wasn’t well enough to continue.”
Madueke Avoids Major Injury, but Faces Extended Absence
After undergoing scans on Monday, Madueke fortunately avoided an ACL injury. However, he will still miss around two months.
The injury adds to Arsenal’s growing list of absentees, including Kai Havertz, who is recovering from knee surgery, and Gabriel Jesus, who is still rehabilitating from an ACL injury. Martin Odegaard missed the match with a shoulder injury, while Piero Hincapie was also unavailable.
“Odegaard wasn’t fit enough to be [on the bench], Piero as well, he’s out of the squad, but thankfully we have Bukayo back,” Arteta said. “That’s what we want, we have a strong bench.”
Arsenal Rely on Depth with Key Injuries
Despite the injury crisis, Arsenal fought back to earn a 1-1 draw, thanks to Gabriel Martinelli’s injury-time equaliser. Arteta praised Martinelli for his impact: “He’s in a really good moment again after the game he had in Bilbao and that period of time probably he deserved more. But his energy again, his attitude was really good and that’s why he made the impact that he made again for the team.”
With Madueke out, Arteta will turn to Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to fill the void. Squad depth will be crucial as Arsenal push for success across multiple competitions.
Arteta Reflects on Madueke’s Strong Start
Earlier this month, Arteta praised Madueke’s integration into the team and the reception from Arsenal fans: “I can talk about what I’ve seen and what I have experienced and I think the welcoming that our supporters gave to Noni from day one it was incredible,” Arteta said. “But our supporters, they’ve been exceptional and rightly so, because he’s an unbelievable player. I’m very happy to have him.”
Arteta also acknowledged Madueke’s excellent performances for England: “I think, looking back at what he’s done with the national team as well – I’ve spoken with Thomas [Tuchel] – I am very pleased with that. He’s really good and he’s in a really, really good moment.”
Arsenal fans will hope Madueke recovers quickly and returns to action ahead of a packed schedule.
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