Arsenal's Victory Over Burnley Comes at Devastating Cost as Arteta Reveals Double Injury Nightmare
Viktor Gyökeres and Martín Zubimendi both sustained injuries during Arsenal's 2–0 victory against Burnley on Saturday, as confirmed by manager Mikel Arteta.
Arsenal secured a comfortable win through strikes from Gyökeres and Declan Rice, with the team generating numerous quality opportunities in open play - something that has proven challenging for Arteta's squad in recent matches.
The victory extended Arsenal's lead to seven points at the summit before Bournemouth's clash with Manchester City on Sunday, though the triumph came with concerns. Gyökeres was absent for the second period, while Zubimendi was forced off approximately 15 minutes before full-time.
"Prior to that moment, I believe [Gyökeres] delivered one of his finest performances," Arteta commented. "His overall display was outstanding. Beyond scoring the goal, we had to substitute him due to a slight discomfort he was experiencing. We'll need to assess the situation."
In his interview with Match of the Day, Arteta confirmed that Gyökeres's issue was muscle-related. "We must wait to determine how serious it is," he stated.
Zubimendi encountered a comparable problem during the second half, with Arteta explaining: "He requested to come off, so we'll have to evaluate his condition.
"Muscular issue, indeed. I'm uncertain about the specifics. Muscular, yes."
Arteta: Finest 45 Minutes This Season, Gyökeres's Peak Performance
Although Arsenal's dominance diminished after the break, they never appeared vulnerable as they effectively neutralized Burnley's attacking efforts. This defensive solidity impressed Arteta, though the manager emphasized the commanding nature of their opening 45 minutes, spearheaded by Gyökeres's attacking display.
"His pressing intensity, positioning and ball control, his runs in behind, how he connected play, his ability to create transition opportunities..." Arteta praised enthusiastically. "So many aspects. He was performing at an excellent level. It's unfortunate he experienced discomfort.
"We began the match brilliantly. The opening half ranks among our finest performances this season. We found the net twice, created several other significant opportunities while keeping a clean sheet.
"That foundation was crucial because after halftime our standards dropped, particularly in possession and our willingness to be more adventurous and play forward passes. However, defensively we remained outstanding."