Centre-back crisis: Arsenal could be without Mosquera for up to two months

Arsenal fear defender Cristhian Mosquera could be sidelined for at least six weeks, compounding their current defensive woes, Sport360NG reports.

The Spanish centre-back, who suffered an ankle injury during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Brentford, is set for further tests to determine the full severity of the problem. Mosquera, 21, was substituted after landing awkwardly, and early indications suggest he may miss between six and eight weeks.

Manager Mikel Arteta acknowledged the concern at Friday’s press conference, saying: “Mosquera is the one that is more complicated. We have another test today.”

Arsenal are already without first-choice centre-back duo Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba. Saliba is “days” away from returning after a knock in training, while Gabriel could remain sidelined until January with a thigh injury.

Mosquera and Piero Hincapie have been covering for the absentees, but with Mosquera facing a lengthy layoff, Saliba’s return becomes pivotal as the Gunners aim to maintain their lead at the top of the Premier League and in their Champions League group.

Arsenal face third-placed Aston Villa on Saturday (12:30 GMT) before traveling to Club Brugge on Wednesday, 10 December (20:00 GMT).