Abou Diaby injured: Arsenal midfielder suffers his 40th injury since joining the Gunners to throw future in doubt
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Surely not again. After suffering an incredible and soul-destroying 39 injuries during his time with Arsenal, Abou Diaby is reported to have suffered another setback in his recovery from injury that will see him miss the start of the season.
Diaby missed the majority of last season after suffering a serious knee injury, but he returned to make an appearance in the final match of the season against Norwich. After the summer break and a full pre-season program, Arsenal were hopeful that Diaby would put his injury troubles behind him, but he is believed to have suffered a hip injury during the 1-0 defeat to New York Red Bulls last month.
The French midfielder was a notable absentee during last weekend’s Emirates Cup as he wasn’t named on the bench despite Arsene Wenger having just nine substitutes available. The 28-year-old is currently the Gunners longest serving player, but he has only made 179 appearances since joining in January 2006 and has been limited to 21 matches in the last three seasons.
He offers an alternative option for Wenger in the defensive midfielder role that has caused Arsenal issues in the past few years, with the Gunners still seeking their ‘next Patrick Vieira’ after the former captain made the central midfield role his own.
There were hopes that Diaby would go the season injury-free to put the worst behind him – much like Tomas Rosicky has done at the North London club – but that hope is wearing thin and questions over his future in football will arise after he recently admitted to considering retirement due to injury.
There is not yet a timescale on a return to action, but he will miss Sunday’s Community Shield match at Wembley against Manchester City.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments