Arsenal youngster Louie Copley featured in the Gunners' friendly against Real Betis but suffered a brutal blow when he was forced off the field through injury
Louie Copley leaves the pitch
Louie Copley limped off the pitch(Image: X)
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Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber have responded after Arsenal youngster Louie Copley confirmed that he'd torn his ACL during his senior Gunners debut in pre-season. Copley was forced off the field during the north London side's friendly defeat against Real Betis.
The 19-year-old was introduced in the second period but lasted just nine minutes after his studs appeared to get caught in the turf in Dublin. The youngster received treatment on the field before hobbling from the field with the assistance of Arsenal's medical staff and straight down the tunnel.
Copley has revealed that he'd realised fans' worst fears after picking up a knee injury during his short spell on the pitch. It was a night of mixed feelings for the academy product, but he remains determined to reach greater heights.
"Words can’t describe how I’m feeling right now, to making my pre season debut for the team I’ve grown up supporting to finding out I’ve ruptured my ACL," Copley wrote on Instagram.
"The road ahead won’t be easy but I’ll give everything to come back stronger and better"
Rice commented on Copley's post with a red heart, while Netherlands international commented with two hands together in prayer.
Louie Copley is helped off the field after sustaining an injury
Louie Copley is helped off the field after sustaining an injury(Image: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)
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Rice is not due back into pre-season training until August 10, following England's run to the World Cup semi-final. Arteta has confirmed he is keen to get back in action.
"When I speak to Declan Rice, he is already saying, 'Ok, if I come this day, then I can play then.' That is much more powerful than the programme. We want to adapt to the context, which is different."
Timber has spent some time in training with Arsenal's squad as he aims to return to action later this month after managing a groin injury. The Dutchman will know better than most what Copley is going through.
The 25-year-old Timber suffered an ACL injury of his own in 2023, during his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest. The versatile defender arrived at the Emirates in a £38m deal but was forced to spend eight months out of action.
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