Once again this is not Arsenal’s year in terms of stability. Just when everything was back on track and January looked promising, three key players picked up injuries and messed with Wenger’s plan. The biggest losses were those of Coquelin and Cazorla who both picked up knee injuries and will be out until March. Then there’s Sanchez who fortunately only picked up a minor injury which will be dealt with before the game against City.
Sanchez’s return is the only good news regarding the injured list as one other major comeback has been postponed. Wilshere will not be available this year after suffering a fracture back in August. It’s hard to believe the 23-year-old will be a contributor to Arsenal’s journey this season. Even if he does return in January, it will take a long time to get back to decent form which means this season may be a bust for the England international.
One other player who will probably fail to be of a massive contribution to Arsenal’s season is Danny Welbeck. The former Manchester United man is still out and has been since September. With five months spent off the pitch, it`s very hard to believe he will get time in front of Giroud and Walcott. Since joining Arsenal, Welbeck has missed 42 games and spent almost 300 days off the pitch.
Coquelin and Cazorla are dealing with knee problems which is never easy. With Arsenal’s last match being scheduled for the 15th of May, the two will only probably get to perform in 10 more games this season. Hopefully one or two transfers will be made this winter given the tough period up ahead. The Gunners have made it to the Champions League knockout, they are fighting for the title and they also have the FA Cup to handle. Not having players perform at 100% will make it incredibly difficult to win any of those trophies.