Mikel Arteta’s preparations for the season’s run-in have been dealt a severe blow with six senior Arsenal players withdrawing from their respective national squads.
Defensive mainstays William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have both remained in London to undergo treatment for ankle and knee issues respectively.
They are joined by Jurrien Timber, Leandro Trossard, and Eberechi Eze, the latter of whom is facing up to six weeks on the sidelines with a calf injury.
The Gunners are also managing the ongoing absence of captain Martin Odegaard, who was omitted from the Norway squad to continue his recovery from a persistent knee problem.
With an FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton looming on 4 April, Arteta will be desperate for his medical team to work miracles.