Arsenal’s Mosquera Faces Six-Week Absence with Ankle Injury

Mosquera’s Injury Deepens Arsenal’s Defensive Woes

Arsenal fear that Cristhian Mosquera could be sidelined for six to eight weeks after sustaining an ankle injury during the club’s 2-0 midweek victory over Brentford.

The 21-year-old Spanish defender was forced off after landing awkwardly in the first half and is now expected to undergo further medical tests to determine the full extent of the damage.

Speaking in Friday’s press conference, manager Mikel Arteta confirmed:

“Mosquera is the one that is more complicated. We have another test today.”

Defensive Crisis Intensifies

Mosquera’s absence comes at a critical time, with Arsenal already dealing with the absence of both first-choice centre-backs, Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba:

• Saliba is “days away” from returning after a training knock ruled him out of clashes with Chelsea and Brentford.

• Gabriel, meanwhile, is unlikely to return until January due to a thigh injury.

With limited senior options, Piero Hincapie may now be tasked with stepping in once more. The Gunners will be hopeful Saliba can return in time for crucial upcoming fixtures.

Fixture Challenges Ahead

Arsenal, who currently top both the Premier League and their Champions League group, face a tough test on Saturday with a visit to third-placed Aston Villa at Villa Park (12:30 GMT).

They then travel to Belgium for a group-stage clash against Club Brugge on Wednesday, 10 December.

Arteta’s side has managed to stay competitive despite injury setbacks throughout the campaign, but the pressure is mounting with December’s congested fixture list.

Mosquera’s Arsenal Start Cut Short

Signed from Valencia in the summer, Mosquera has been used regularly in recent weeks amid the injury crisis, and his performances have been encouraging. His injury now halts what had been a promising start to life at the Emirates.

More injury updates are expected after further scans, but Arteta will be desperate to have Saliba back to anchor the defence as Arsenal aim to maintain their title push both domestically and in Europe.