Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White both sustained injuries during Arsenal’s tense 1-0 victory over West Ham at the London Stadium. The win was crucial for the Gunners as they extended their five-point lead over Manchester City with just two games remaining in the Premier League season.
Leandro Trossard’s deflected shot in the 83rd minute proved to be the decisive moment, securing the three points and keeping Arsenal’s hopes of a historic double alive. However, the match was not without its drama, particularly in the final moments when Callum Wilson’s last-gasp effort was ruled out after a lengthy VAR review. Replays showed Pablo from West Ham with an arm across David Raya, leading to a controversial decision that could have significant implications for the league race.
The result was a major step forward for Arsenal in their quest for a first league title in 22 years. Despite the win, the injuries to Calafiori and White cast a shadow over what was otherwise a memorable weekend for the team.
Calafiori’s early exit initially appeared to be a tactical move, but Arteta clarified after the game that the Italian was forced off due to an unspecified issue. Meanwhile, White was taken off in the 28th minute following a heavy challenge from Crysencio Summerville. The defender was seen leaving the stadium with a knee brace, and Arteta provided a cautious update on his condition.
“Ben is going to need some further testing tomorrow,” Arteta said. “We don’t know the severity yet, but it doesn’t look good at all.”
Arteta praised the team’s resilience throughout the match, especially against a West Ham side fighting for survival. He highlighted the contributions of Martin Odegaard, who came on to assist Trossard’s winning goal, and David Raya, whose performance in goal was pivotal.
“What a moment, what an afternoon, what a week it has been for us,” Arteta said. “I cannot praise enough the attitude, the desire, the courage and the quality that the team has shown throughout this week because there was so much at stake.”
He also acknowledged the challenges posed by West Ham, a club with a rich history. “We started the game so well, created three big chances to go in front and we didn’t manage to do that so we had to keep our heads cool.”
The injuries to White and Calafiori forced Arteta to make adjustments during the match. After half-time, he told his players, “We’re really going to go for it so be ready,” as the team adapted to the changing circumstances.
Arteta credited the finishers for making the difference, noting Odegaard’s impact and Raya’s critical save in the first half. He also mentioned the chaotic nature of the game, with both teams playing for their lives.
With just two matches left in the season, Arteta emphasized the importance of enjoying the moment. “Now we leave and enjoy what we have done today, because as I said it has been an incredible week.”
He concluded by speaking about the team’s resilience and the need to prepare for the next game against Burnley. “Those players, the way they are standing in front of the opportunity and showing resilience is remarkable.”
