Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey is expected to miss about two months of Women's Super League action because of a hamstring injury. The Spain international suffered the injury during Arsenal's 4-2 defeat at Manchester City on 4 October. Caldentey has been a key player for Arsenal since joining from Barcelona two years ago and was the 2024-25 WSL Player of the Year.
Arsenal manager Renee Slegers said the injury is a bigger hamstring problem. "It's a bigger hamstring injury. The estimation right now is between eight to 10 weeks. We'll see," Slegers said. She added that re-scanning showed a good healing process, though the club hopes for a shorter absence.
Caldentey's absence is a blow to Arsenal, who return to WSL action on Saturday when they host Birmingham City at 12:45 BST. The Gunners have made a disappointing start, winning just one of their opening five WSL matches, which has led to questions over Slegers' position. They sit 10th in the table.
Arsenal will also be without injured England forward Chloe Kelly and German summer signing Selina Cerci on Saturday. Cerci underwent knee surgery after her condition worsened, and she is expected to be out for a while. Slegers said her absence has made it harder for Cerci to get into the team, as she missed parts of pre-season.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing