Huge blow for Arsenal as Héctor Bellerín ruled out for lengthy spell

Arsenal have been handed a severe blow after discovering the full extent of Hector Bellerin’s injury.

The Arsenal right-back has been confirmed to be out for the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that he sustained in the 2-0 victory over Chelsea.

The 23-year-old was carried off the pitch and replaced by Mohamed Elneny in the 72nd minute in the Gunners’ victory over their London rivals last Saturday at the Emirates.

This injury could see him possibly miss the start of next season with the recovery time looking anywhere from six to nine months. It’s the third time that the Spaniard has been out this season having only just returned from a calf injury picked up in December when playing Southampton.

Bellerin joins a list of three other players out for Unai Emery’s side. Rob Holding, Danny Welbeck, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are all currently missing for the London side: Holding is also out with an ACL injury as their defensive issues continue.

Arsenal have three options to use in Bellerin’s absence as Stephan Lichtsteiner, Carl Jenkinson and Ainsley Maitland-Niles can all play right-back.

Arsenal boss Emery confirmed the injury to reporters:

“We have Ainsley, he’s played well and can help us playing at right-back or right-winger.”

He added, “Also Stephan Lichsteiner is another player who can play there, and don’t forget Carl Jenkinson who has played some matches and can be used if we need him.”

This injury may force Emery into the transfer market, though it would be difficult to get anyone given the fact that he has said he will only be able to sign players on loan.

The issue of who will play on the right side of the defence could be a problem as they host an in-form Manchester United side at the Emirates this Friday in the FA Cup fourth-round tie.