Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has told Football.London that Willian’s substitution against Leeds United was down to injury rather than selection.
The Brazilian started at Elland Road despite a controversial trip to Dubai during the international break, which meant he had to wait to train.
However, he didn’t reappear for the second half, as Arteta decided to bring on Reiss Nelson at half time.
Some were wondering where Willian was, and boss Arteta suggested that he has a ‘muscular’ problem and had to be withdrawn.
“No, he was feeling something muscular and we had to take him off,” said Arteta.
Willian hasn’t been in great form for Arsenal. Since racking up three assists on the opening day of the season, Willian has only managed five key passes in the following seven games.
He hasn’t had a shot on target since the opening day, whilst completing just five dribbles and four crosses all season.
They’re very disappointing numbers from Willian, who is so far failing to live up to the contract Arsenal handed him over the summer.
Still, with Nicolas Pepe now suspended following his red card in the 1-1 draw with Leeds, Arsenal need options out wide – and will ultimately hope that Willian is back for next weekend’s clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
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