LONDON – Arsenal are facing a significant setback as Eberechi Eze is expected to be sidelined for several weeks with a calf injury, a development that casts a shadow over the club’s ambitious pursuit of a historic quadruple. The injury occurred during Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League Round of 16 second leg on March 17, 2026, a match in which Eze scored the opening goal.
The timing of the injury is particularly concerning for Mikel Arteta’s side, as they navigate a demanding schedule encompassing Premier League title contention, an FA Cup quarter-final, Champions League aspirations, and a League Cup final against Manchester City. Eze’s absence will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of the Gunners’ squad.
Arteta confirmed after the Leverkusen match that Eze was forced off with the calf problem and would undergo further assessment to determine the extent of the damage. Reports indicate that Eze is likely to be out for between four and six weeks, a significant blow to Arsenal’s attacking options. This injury also led to Eze being withdrawn from the England squad ahead of upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan as the national team prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
Eze’s recent form has been pivotal for Arsenal. He has scored four goals in his last seven games, including a stunning long-range effort against Leverkusen at the Emirates Stadium, a goal that helped secure their place in the Champions League quarter-finals. The Gunners’ 3-1 aggregate victory over Bayer Leverkusen sets up a quarter-final clash with Sporting Lisbon. Declan Rice also scored in that match, adding to Arsenal’s momentum.
The loss of Eze is compounded by a growing injury list at the Emirates. Gabriel Magalhães, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, Leandro Trossard, and Martin Ødegaard are all currently unavailable for selection due to various injuries, leaving Arteta with a depleted squad as they chase silverware on multiple fronts. The sheer number of absentees raises questions about squad depth and the potential for fatigue as the season reaches its critical stages.
Arsenal currently holds a nine-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table, with a game in hand. However, City are known for their relentless consistency, and Arsenal will need to navigate a challenging run of fixtures without key players if they are to maintain their advantage. The League Cup final against City on Sunday presents an immediate opportunity for silverware, but also a stern test of Arsenal’s capabilities.
The FA Cup also remains a viable route to success, with Arsenal facing Southampton in the quarter-finals on April 4th. A win there would put them one step closer to a Wembley semi-final. Following the FA Cup tie, Arsenal will turn their attention back to the Champions League, where they will host Sporting Lisbon in the first leg of their quarter-final tie.
The injury to Eze highlights the physical demands placed on players competing at the highest level. With multiple competitions still within reach, Arsenal will need to carefully manage the workload of their remaining players and hope for swift recoveries for those currently sidelined. The club’s medical team will be working around the clock to get key players back to fitness as quickly and safely as possible.
The Gunners’ pursuit of an unprecedented quadruple – Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, and Champions League – was already a daunting task. Eze’s injury significantly increases the challenge, but Arteta will be hoping that his squad can rally and overcome this latest setback. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining Arsenal’s fate this season.
Arsenal’s next confirmed fixture is the League Cup final against Manchester City. Following that, they will travel to Southampton for their FA Cup quarter-final clash. Fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Eze’s recovery and hoping to see him back on the pitch as soon as possible.
What are your thoughts on Arsenal’s chances without Eze? Share your predictions in the comments below!
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