Arsenal is facing a defensive shortage after Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber were sidelined with injuries during the Gunners’ latest Premier League victory.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is grappling with a burgeoning defensive dilemma following injuries to Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber.
Despite a 2-1 victory over Brighton, the Gunners’ title momentum has been tempered by the loss of these key assets.
Calafiori was forced to withdraw during the pre-match warm-up due to an “awkward problem picked up in training,” while Timber missed the clash entirely after sustaining an issue in the previous fixture.
Arteta’s tactical flexibility is being severely tested as the medical staff assesses the severity of both setbacks.
The Italian international, Calafiori, is valued for his versatility across the backline, and his absence leaves a significant void in Arsenal’s progressive play.
Meanwhile, the club remains cautious with Timber’s recovery to avoid long-term complications. Arteta noted that Calafiori’s problem worsened just before kick-off, stating the club was “unwilling to take risks” with the defender.
The Premier League leaders must now navigate a congested festive schedule with a significantly stretched squad.
While Arteta has publicly maintained a pragmatic tone, emphasizing “adaptability” and “solutions,” the lack of defensive depth remains a primary concern for the North London club.
Internal confidence remains high that the team’s structural integrity will sustain their performance levels, but the durability of the remaining squad members will be the ultimate factor in their ongoing title charge.