Arsenal winger Noni Madueke is expected to be sidelined for approximately two months due to a knee injury sustained during the Premier League draw against Manchester City. The 23-year-old was substituted at halftime after struggling with discomfort and is believed to have picked up a knee problem that will keep him out for a significant stretch of matches.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that Madueke felt the issue early in the match and wasn't well enough to continue. While scans have ruled out anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) damage, the exact extent of the injury remains unclear. Arteta stated that Madueke will likely be out for "a few weeks" but hopes it's not a matter of months, with further scans scheduled for next week to determine the severity of the injury.
Injury Impact on Arsenal
Madueke's absence will be a significant blow to Arsenal's attacking options, compounded by the club's existing injury woes. Kai Havertz remains out with knee surgery, Gabriel Jesus is sidelined long-term with an ACL tear, and captain Martin Odegaard continues to battle a shoulder problem. This leaves Viktor Gyökeres as the club's only recognized No. 9 .
Matches Madueke Will Miss
Madueke's expected absence will see him miss crucial fixtures, including :
- Premier League matches: Against Newcastle United, West Ham United, Fulham, Crystal Palace, Burnley, and Sunderland
- Champions League ties: Against Olympiacos, Slavia Prague, and potentially Atletico Madrid
- England international fixtures: October camp and potentially World Cup qualifiers against Serbia and Albania
Potential Return
There's a slim possibility of Madueke returning in time for the November international break, which could see him available for the match against Tottenham Hotspur on November 23. However, this depends on the progress of his recovery.