Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey is facing a race against time to be fit for the club’s UEFA Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
The Ghana international, who found the net in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Brentford on Saturday, was forced off the pitch after experiencing discomfort, raising concerns over his availability for the crucial tie at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The 31-year-old is currently undergoing medical evaluation, with the club awaiting the results to determine the severity of the issue.
“We didn’t expect the issue with Thomas that we had to take him out. He felt something, so we didn’t want to take any risks,” Arteta said.
“We don’t know the diagnosis yet, I haven’t spoken to the doctors. They will check him now and see how he is,” he added.
Partey had only recently returned to full fitness and was beginning to reestablish his influence in Arsenal’s midfield.
His absence would be a significant setback for the Gunners as they look to secure a place in the Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2009.
Despite holding a commanding three-goal advantage from the first leg, Arsenal remain wary of Real Madrid’s formidable European record.
Arteta will be hoping to have as many of his key players fit and available as the North London club prepares for one of its biggest nights in recent history.