Gabriel Martinelli injury: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta hopeful problem is not ‘too serious’

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful the injury Gabriel Martinelli picked up against Manchester City is not too serious.

Teenager Martinelli started his first game since March against City on Tuesday after returning from a knee injury.

The Brazilian impressed, setting up Arsenal’s only goal during the 4-1 defeat in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals, but he was forced to come off just after half-time.

Martinelli injured his shin during a strong challenge from City goalkeeper Zack Steffen and blood could be seen coming through his sock.

The forward tried to carry on following half-time, but he had to come off a few minutes after the break.

Arteta, however, is hopeful the injury is not too serious, with Arsenal facing a busy run of games - starting with their Boxing Day clash against Chelsea.

“I was really happy with Gabi,” said Arteta. “He looked really sharp in training.

“He looked as he always is, with his energy and the passion that he has. He was really good but he picked up a really bad kick on his shin and he had to come off, because he wasn’t comfortable carrying on playing.” 

Martinelli was forced to come off just minutes into the second-half.
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Asked by Arsenal’s official club website how serious it was, Arteta replied: “I don’t think it will be too serious.

“But he will need a couple of days. I am really pleased with another young player’s performance as well.” 

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