Arsenal have suffered a major setback on the eve of their Premier League title defence, with new signing Bruno Guimarães ruled out of the opening game against Coventry City.
The Brazilian midfielder picked up a thigh injury during Arsenal’s Community Shield victory over Manchester City. Although Mikel Arteta initially remained hopeful about his recovery, Guimarães has not recovered in time to feature in the league opener.
His absence is a significant blow because Arsenal spent around £75 million to bring him in from Newcastle, expecting him to become an important part of their midfield.
Guimarães had already made his competitive debut for Arsenal in the Community Shield, but was substituted at half-time after appearing to experience discomfort. The club have now decided not to rush him back.
The timing could hardly be worse for Arteta. Arsenal are beginning their campaign as defending Premier League champions and will want to start strongly in front of their home supporters.
The injury also leaves Arteta with fewer options in midfield. Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino and Myles Lewis-Skelly could all have important roles to play while Guimarães is unavailable.
There is currently no confirmed timetable for his return, although reports suggest the injury could keep him out for several weeks.
Arsenal will therefore have to begin their title defence without one of their biggest summer signings.
For Guimarães, the priority now is recovering properly rather than risking a longer absence. For Arteta, however, the challenge is immediate: find a midfield combination capable of keeping Arsenal’s momentum going until their new Brazilian star is ready to return.
