Manchester City, Arsenal get crippled by injuries

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a setback ahead of their crucial Champions League last-16 second leg encounter with FC Porto as Brazilian forward Gabriel Martinelli will be sidelined due to a foot injury sustained during their recent Premier League fixture.

The 22-year-old missed Arsenal’s victory over Brentford and was spotted post-match with a protective boot and crutches.

Arteta remained tight-lipped about Martinelli’s chances of featuring against Porto, stating, “Percentage you want [of him to play]? There are options. Sorry to disappoint you.”

The absence of Martinelli adds to the challenges for Arsenal, who are aiming to overturn a one-goal deficit from the first leg.

Meanwhile, in the Premier League, Manchester City‘s goalkeeper, Ederson, faces an injury concern ahead of their clash with Arsenal later this month.

The Brazilian shot-stopper suffered a muscular injury in his right leg during a collision with Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez.

ESPN Brazil reports that Ederson is expected to be sidelined for three to four weeks, making him doubtful for the match against Arsenal on March 31.

Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, expressed concern over Ederson’s injury, stating that it “doesn’t look good.”

The absence of the influential goalkeeper could pose a significant challenge for City as they aim to maintain their title chase against Arsenal.