David Luiz is a major injury concern for Arsenal’s opening game of the new Premier League season against Fulham on Saturday, reports David Ornstein.
The 33-year-old defender’s participation is in serious doubt because of a neck complaint that could rule him out for an extended period.
Rob Holding is now likely to stay at the club instead of joining Newcastle United on loan.
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How serious is Luiz’s injury?
It is serious enough to prevent the centre-back from taking part in full training sessions, as Arteta’s squad prepare for the trip to Craven Cottage.
The Athletic understands a late decision is expected to be made on his availability. Luiz sustained the problem during his side’s Community Shield victory over Liverpool last month and subsequently aggravated it in training.
How long could he be absent?
It will largely depend on how Luiz responds to treatment but the location and nature of the issue is said to require particular caution. He might be on the sidelines for around six weeks.
Any such absence could heavily disrupt head coach Arteta’s plans for the campaign, given the Brazilian has established himself as a key part of the side.
If he is passed fit, the lack of practice is not thought to be a significant worry, considering the defender was only involved in one session before the Community Shield and still produced a fine display.
What other defensive options does Arteta have?
Despite the arrival of two new centre-backs ahead of the 2020-21 season, Arteta is facing something of a selection headache.
Shkodran Mustafi, Pablo Mari and Calum Chambers are all recovering from injuries of their own. Sokratis Papastathopoulos has barely featured under Arteta, while William Saliba is still integrating and fellow recruit Gabriel has not played a match since March 8.
Luiz was guaranteed to have been among the first names on the team sheet.
What does this mean for Holding’s future?
Holding was on course for a loan move to Newcastle — it was anticipated he would join them after the Community Shield. Arsenal delayed their decision, however, and circumstances have seen the 24-year-old’s standing elevated.
Holding is in line to start against Fulham and Arteta is keen for him to remain at the Emirates Stadium beyond the October 5 transfer deadline.
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