Arsenal have confirmed that Granit Xhaka will be out for approximately three months after sustaining a knee injury during the Gunners' 3-1 victory over Tottenham in the North London Derby.
The Swiss midfielder was forced off on Sunday after a freak collision with Lucas Moura in the build up to Heung Min-Son's consolation goal for Spurs.
Early signs had looked good as he was able to walk around the Emirates to celebrate the victory with his teammates and fans.
However the club have now confirmed that Xhaka will be out until at least December after sustaining serious damage to his medial ligament.
The injury does not require surgery, and his recovery and rehabilitation will begin immediately.
It's a devastating blow for the 28-year-old who was only just returning after missing nearly a month of action due to a suspension sustained for a red card against Manchester City just before the international break.
Xhaka had also tested positive for COVID-19 during that time while away with Switzerland, meaning he had had to miss some training sessions at London Colney too.
He has been a key part of Mikel Arteta's midfield since the Spaniard took charge in December 2019 though and has started every game he's been available for this season.
That is despite the fact that he came close to joining Roma this summer.
Jose Mourinho's side showed intense interest in the Swiss international, but after they were not able to make an offer deemed acceptable by Arsenal, Xhaka ended up signing a contract extension to see him stay in North London for the next four years instead.
The news has the potential to see increased game time for summer signing Albert Sambi Lokonga alongside Thomas Partey in midfield.
Mohamed Elneny and Ainsley Maitland-Niles are also options, while highly rated Hale Ender Charlie Patino could be in line to make a step up to first team level if needs be.
