Arsenal Handed Huge Injury Boost as Defender Returns to Training Ahead of UCL Clash

According to a report by London Evening Standard on Tuesday October 20, 2026, Arsenal have received a major injury boost after Piero Hincapie returned to training ahead of their Champions League clash against Bayern Munich.

The Ecuadorian defender has resumed individual training following an ankle injury, raising hopes that he could return to action before the upcoming international break.

Hincapie has missed Arsenal’s last two matches after sustaining the injury during a training session following their victory over Leeds United. The 24-year-old had played the final ten minutes of that game before participating in additional drills at the Emirates Stadium.

Unfortunately, he injured his ankle during the session and had to be carried off the pitch on the back of goalkeeper Illan Meslier. The unusual incident raised concerns about the defender’s fitness and availability for upcoming fixtures.

Following medical scans, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta indicated that Hincapie could spend several weeks on the sidelines. However, the defender has made encouraging progress and returned to the training pitch on Tuesday afternoon.

Hincapie completed individual exercises away from the main group as he gradually increases his workload. Although he is not expected to feature against Bayern Munich on Wednesday night, his recovery suggests that his absence may not last as long as initially feared.

Provided he experiences no setbacks, the defender could become available again before the international break. His return would provide Arteta with another defensive option as Arsenal prepare for an important period of the season.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga participated in Arsenal’s final training session before the squad travelled to Germany. He missed Sunday’s match against Nottingham Forest because of a minor issue, with Meslier taking his place on the bench.

Several young players also trained with the first team on Tuesday. Ceadach O’Neill, Josh Ogunnaike, Remy Mitchell, Marli Salmon and Max Dowman were involved in the session.

Ms.Debs feedback-opera-news-app@opera.com