Arsenal have been handed another injury concern ahead of next week’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg clash against Newcastle United.
The Gunners will make the journey to St. James’ Park with a two-goal deficit to overcome after goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon at the Emirates put the tie right in our favour.
With a few key players already sidelined for Mikel Arteta’s side, the Spaniard confirmed after Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Girona that he has one further obstacle to overcome in their bid to reach Wembley.
Third Arsenal star could miss cup semi-final?
With Bukayo Saka (hamstring) and Gabriel Jesus (ACL) already ruled out with long-term injuries, Arsenal are now sweating on the fitness of David Raya ahead of next week’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg.
First choice goalkeeper David Raya was unavailable for selection in Wednesday night’s Champions League trip to Girona and Arteta has confirmed it was not a tactical decision, much to the dismay of Arsenal fans.
“He certainly could not play, he’s injured and that’s it,” said the Gunners gaffer on Raya’s absence. Former Bournemouth stopper Neto became Arsenal’s oldest debutant in over 110 years when he filled in for the No. 1 and failed to impress.
It was a night to forget for the Brazilian when awful positioning allowed for Girona’s opener. To make matters worse, the 35-year-old was almost sent off in the same incident, diving for the ball despite being well outside of his box.
Elsewhere at Arsenal, Ben White is close to resuming full training and has a chance of returning next week after a few months on the sidelines.
Tough Arsenal run could benefit Toon
After a busy but incredibly effective period for Newcastle, we were afforded the benefit of a midweek rest while Arsenal played Girona, and fixtures before our meeting next week don’t get much easier for the North London outfit.
Arsenal welcomes Manchester City this Sunday in what feels a must-win game for both teams. The hosts must win to keep the pressure on league leaders Liverpool, while City are placed precariously in fourth position with three sides lying in wait to overtake – with us in prime position.
Raya’s starting position this weekend will be very telling as we await further updates on his injury status. The location and severity of the injury is yet to be confirmed, so it may just be that he couldn’t be risked on Wednesday ahead of the big games approaching – or it might seriously derail Arsenal’s season.