Arsenal's dislike of international breaks could deepen following Gabriel Martinelli's injury for Brazil.
Martinelli left Arsenal and returned to the Selecao with confidence after scoring two goals and providing two assists in his last five games. The 23-year-old striker came on as a substitute in Brazil's crucial 2-1 win over Chile in Santiago. However, bad news has come for Arsenal and Martinelli himself.
TNT Sports Brazil reported that Martinelli suffered a calf problem during the build-up to the match against Peru. The Arsenal player was spotted with the Brazilian team doctors for scans.
The injury is not believed to be serious, but Arsenal fans will have to hold their breath and wait for the final result. It will be a familiar feeling for Gunners supporters, following recent injuries to Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka on international duty.
Odegaard has been out since suffering a serious injury while playing for Norway in early September. The Arsenal captain is desperate to return as soon as possible. In a further blow for the Gunners, Saka limped off during England's 2-1 defeat to Greece.
Saka was then left out of the squad for the game against Finland in Helsinki. The striker returned to Arsenal for further assessment on what appeared to be a hamstring problem. Thankfully, manager Lee Carsley then delivered the news that all Arsenal fans wanted to hear.
"Saka is close to recovery, but it would be unfair to take any risks with him. He's a positive guy and I hope he'll be fine," Carsley said ahead of the game against Finland.
Arsenal face Bournemouth in the Premier League this weekend as they look to extend their unbeaten run, and the Gunners will want Martinelli involved.
So far this season, Martinelli has made 10 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal, scoring two goals and providing two assists.
