Arsenal have been dealt a major injury blow after head coach Renee Slegers confirmed that Mariona Caldentey is expected to be sidelined for eight to 10 weeks with a hamstring injury.

According to the London Evening Standard on Thursday, October 15, 2026, the midfielder sustained the injury during Arsenal’s recent defeat to Manchester City, leaving the Gunners facing a challenge as they prepare for their upcoming Women’s Super League fixtures.

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Birmingham City, Slegers revealed that a fresh scan carried out this week had shown encouraging signs of healing. However, Caldentey is still expected to remain unavailable until December.

“We’re gutted to lose Mariona,” Slegers said. “She’s so good for us. She’s been so good for us for a long time and gutted for her as well because she loves the game.”

The Arsenal boss emphasised the midfielder’s importance to the team, explaining that the midfield plays a vital role in connecting the different areas of the pitch during both attacking and defensive phases.

Slegers acknowledged that her side must find suitable alternatives, make the most of the available players’ strengths and establish the right balance in midfield while Caldentey recovers.

Arsenal have also suffered another setback after Selina Cerci underwent knee surgery. The Germany international had been involved in most training sessions before the issue required medical intervention, while Chloe Kelly remains unavailable.

Despite the team’s difficult start to the campaign, Slegers has reiterated her commitment to Arsenal, expressing her affection for the club and confidence that results will improve.

The manager also disclosed that the club used the international break to conduct an internal review of their performances, examining their strengths, weaknesses, training methods and overall team culture.

According to Slegers, the assessment identified several areas for improvement, with adjustments set to be introduced in the coming fixtures. Arsenal currently sit 10th in the WSL table after five matches.

Their immediate focus is Saturday’s clash with Birmingham City, where they will look to get their campaign back on track. With Caldentey facing an extended absence, finding an effective midfield combination will be vital to Arsenal’s efforts to climb the standings.