Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s preparations for Wednesday’s Premier League showdown against Manchester United have been dealt a blow, as promising youngster Michal Rosiak has been ruled out with a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury. The 19-year-old sustained the injury during a behind-closed-doors friendly against Ipswich Town over the international break, according to Arsenal youth expertJeorge Bird.
Rosiak, who has been a standout performer for Arsenal’s Under-21s this season, also captained the Under-19s in the UEFA Youth League and joined the first-team squad for their pre-season tour of the United States. The young midfielder had started every PL2 match until Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Brighton, which he missed due to the injury. He has tallied two goals in eight league appearances this campaign.
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While MCL injuries are generally less severe than anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, which can sideline players for up to nine months, Rosiak is expected to miss at least another month. A return in January appears likely, coinciding with the resumption of Under-21 football after Arsenal’s final PL2 match of the year against Sunderland on December 16.
Arsenal midfielder Michal Rosiak
Michal Rosiak (Image credit: Getty Images)
Rosiak’s setback comes at a time when Arsenal are finally navigating past the injury and suspension woes that plagued their early season. Key players such as Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Mikel Merino have all missed action, as have Oleksandr Zinchenko, Thomas Partey, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz.
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Despite these hurdles, Arsenal have hit their stride since returning from the November international break. With fitness levels improving across the squad, the Gunners have rediscovered their attacking rhythm, netting 13 goals in their last two matches.
This resurgence has allowed Arsenal to edge ahead of Manchester City in the Premier League standings, creating early separation in the title race.
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