Arsenal could gain a significant advantage in their upcoming Champions League Round of 16 clash as their opponents, FC Porto, are reeling from a double injury blow.

Two crucial players are out, potentially disrupting Porto’s game plan and leaving them vulnerable against Arsenal’s attack.

Porto’s defensive and attacking woes

FC Porto manager Sérgio Conceição faces a defensive dilemma due to fullback Zaidu Sanusi‘s long-term injury.

Arsenal defenders out but midfield gets a boost for Porto clash

Initially raising concerns after a knee injury, Sanusi’s diagnosis is even worse than initially suspected. Medical examinations now reveal that he will be sidelined for the remainder of this season and a hefty portion of the next, requiring surgery.

Adding to their problems, star striker Mehdi Taremi is a serious doubt for the crucial Arsenal match. A thigh injury sustained during training puts his participation in question.

Taremi’s experience as a Champions League goal scorer would be a huge loss for Porto, giving Arsenal’s defence a bit of breathing room.

The 31-year-old has 10 goals and six assists in 25 Champions League appearances.

Opportunity for Arsenal

These injuries undoubtedly leave Porto in a weaker position ahead of their showdown with Arsenal. It offers the Gunners a chance to capitalise on defensive gaps and will limit Porto’s offensive threat.

The Gunners still face their own fitness concerns, but Porto’s injury crisis offers Arsenal a chance to seize control of their Champions League destiny and increase their chances of advancing to the next round.