New Arsenal signing Mikel Merino sustained a shoulder injury during his first training session with the club.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that the £32 million acquisition from Real Sociedad is expected to be sidelined for a few weeks due to a suspected fracture.
Merino, whose transfer was officially announced on Tuesday, was injured in a collision with Arsenal defender Gabriel and was later seen wearing a sling.
“It is unfortunate. Yesterday he had a collision and he got a shoulder injury,” Arteta said.
“It looks as though he could be out for a few weeks. It was his first session.
“We were all very excited and everything was looking good but he landed on the floor and has a small fracture.
“He was in so much pain and we have to wait and see and do more tests.
“This is football. We have tried to do all the things we wanted.”
The injury to Merino, who won Euro 2024 with Spain over the summer, is a significant setback for Arsenal.
The Gunners are set to face Brighton at Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
They will also be without Gabriel Jesus, although Arteta has indicated that the Brazilian is making good progress in his recovery from a groin injury.
On Aaron Ramsdale’s £25million move to Southampton, Arteta added: “I want to say thank you for what he has done for the club, his team and myself.
“He brought a lot of joy, his charisma and energy. But things developed and it became difficult for him.
“He has joined a great club and a great coach.”
Aaron Ramsdale, who has earned five caps for England, was included in Gareth Southgate’s squad for Euro 2024.
He made 89 appearances for Arsenal following his £26 million transfer from Sheffield United in 2021.
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