Cristhian Mosquera sat out Arsenal’s training session on the eve of their Champions League opener in Naples, putting him in line to miss a second successive game for the club.
The defender was also absent for Sunday’s 2-1 win over Chelsea after picking up a problem against Aston Villa last week. Speaking at the weekend, Mikel Arteta said Mosquera had a muscular issue and added that it was “not too much,” but the immediate concern for Arsenal is that he was not back on the grass today.
Arsenal’s defensive options are thinning
Mosquera’s absence comes at a difficult time. William Saliba is already sidelined, while Jurrien Timber is only just returning to training after a long-standing groin problem. That leaves Arsenal with fewer established defensive options as they prepare for a quick turnaround and a major European test.
There was also some disruption to the day’s build-up, with Arsenal’s plane delayed in the UK because of air traffic control issues. Rather than wait at the airport, the club stayed at the training ground.
Arsenal are due to play their Champions League opener in Naples tomorrow, with kick-off scheduled for 7.15pm UK time and 9.30pm local time. For Mosquera, the question is now whether the muscular issue keeps him out for a second straight match, while for Arteta the focus will be on how to manage a stretched back line.
