Mikel Arteta has told his post-match press conference – as per Football London – that the injury sustained by Takehiro Tomiyasu is “serious” after speaking to the Arsenal man, while he is unsure over William Saliba’s injury in the first half.
The Gunners were knocked out on penalties on Thursday night. They suffered defeat to a side that took held Spurs to a point from a possible six in the Champions League group stage. The two sides drew 2-2 in the first leg of the clash.
So, all eyes on The Emirates. Granit Xhaka continued his goalscoring form this season, putting the Gunners 1-0 up in the first half. It came after Tomiyasu had been subbed, having slipped and over-extended. Soon after, Saliba went off.
Sporting equalised just after the hour mark, Pedro Goncalves scoring a stunning goal – smashing the ball over the top of Aaron Ramsdale from the halfway line. An incredible strike. The game, some how, went into extra time and penalties.
Arsenal missed a number of glorious chances – notably, Leandro Trossard going one on one. Only, for the Sporting stopper, Antonio Adan, to tip the shot onto the post. Gabriel Martinelli was the only player to miss in the shootout.
Arteta commented on Saliba and Tomiyasu: “Tomiyasu looks pretty serious from his reaction and what he said to me, but it’s very early. Willy I don’t know, he had some discomfort and could not continue so we had to take him out.”
Arteta: Arsenal man Tomiyasu injury is serious but unsure over Saliba
It is a major blow. Tomiyasu has had his injury issues and while having the Japan star in and around the Arsenal side obviously improves depth – it is not a huge deal. However, the potential loss of Saliba is enormous at this stage.
The Frenchman has been one of the first names on the team sheet under Arteta this season. Losing him, at this point in the season could prove pivotal. It will be interesting to see who comes in – Rob Holding, or new signing Jakub Kiwior.
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