Henrikh Mkhitaryan is still out with the second injury of his loan spell at AS Roma, in a worrying sign for Arsenal fans.

LECCE, ITALY - SEPTEMBER 29: Henrick Mkhitaryan of Roma reacts during the Serie A match between US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on September 29, 2019 in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
LECCE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 29: Henrick Mkhitaryan of Roma reacts during a Serie A match. US Lecce and AS Roma at Stadio Via del Mare on September 29, 2019, in Lecce, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Before the injury problems, when Mkhitaryan went on loan to AS Roma last summer, I think it’s fair to say we all hoped it would eventually lead to a permanent deal.

Things weren’t working out for the winger in England, so it was in everyone’s interest for him to succeed in Italy.

The season started well for the 31-year-old. He scored once and assisted once in his first three starts in Serie A, whilst also impressing internationally with goals and assists for Armenia. Unfortunately, he then tore a muscle in his right thigh.

After two months out, Mkhitaryan made his return to the team. Once again, things started well, with a couple more goals in seven appearances (and just two starts). Then he picked up another injury in January, this time to his left thigh.

There’s no word on exactly when to expect Mkhitaryan back at this stage. All we know is that three weeks after the injury, he still isn’t in the AS Roma squad.

Putting together just five starts this season, the signs certainly aren’t good for Roma making a permanent bid for him.